What are the most common summer accidents and ailments?
“Many summer accidents are vehicular, given the amount of travel during the crucial 100 days of summer between Memorial Day and Labor Day. People will be vacationing and driving places. Make sure you are squared away with your child’s car seat. It wouldn’t hurt to visit a fire department if necessary to make sure the car seat is installed properly and that it is appropriate for your child’s age and size. Additionally, do not drive sleep deprived. Make sure you are well rested and prepared for your trip.
If kids become car sick, encourage them to look out the window. Games like “I Spy” will keep them looking out the window and prevent boredom. Singing songs can help distract them as well. I generally try to put the kibosh on electronic devices but they can help the whole family on long trips.
Water safety is another big summer concern. Make sure that your children wear well-fitted life jackets when boating; swim lessons are a good idea and the safest swimming pool is one surrounded by a four-foot locked fence. Always be vigilant when your kids are near water. While your child doesn’t necessarily need to wait one hour after eating to swim, it is advisable to avoid getting too much exercise with a completely full tummy. It is also important to use sunscreen and apply it often when outdoors for extended periods. Even with the well-documented threat of skin cancer, I still see a lot of sunburns, particularly with teenagers.
In the heat of summer, make sure your kids get plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, which can lead to vulnerability to conditions like muscle cramps. Water is best. The only time I recommend sports drinks is for kids participating in endurance events such as long-distance running. With endurance activities it is helpful to get the extra glucose. Signs of dehydration in young kids include fussiness, irritability and often they will not want to continue to play or participate in activities.
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