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Summer Safety

It's summer, the perfect time for family fun, outdoor adventures, and making memories together! It’s also a time when a few extra precautions can go a long way in preventing accidents and injuries. As you enjoy all that summer has to offer, keep these safety tips in mind.

Water Safety

Drowning can happen quickly and quietly, even when adults are nearby.

  • Designate an adult as "Water Watcher" anytime children are swimming or playing near water.
  • Avoid distractions like phones, books, or conversations while supervising.
  • Stay within arm's reach of young children and inexperienced swimmers.
  • Never rely on floaties, water wings, or pool noodles as safety devices.
  • Use properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets when boating or spending time near open water.
  • Enroll children in swimming lessons when possible, but remember that lessons do not replace supervision.
  • Never allow children to swim alone.
  • Keep a phone handy for emergencies.
  • In lakes and rivers, swim only in designated areas and always use the buddy system.
  • Watch for currents, boats, and hidden hazards like drop-offs, and have children wear life jackets when on or near open water.

Read more: 7 Water Safety Tips for Parents | Toddlers - Safety - GetParentingTips.com

Child swimming

 

Heat and Sun Safety

Texas summers can bring extreme temperatures that increase the risk of heat-related illness.

  • Never leave a child unattended in a vehicle, even for a few minutes.
  • Always check the back seat before locking your car.
  • Encourage children to drink water frequently throughout the day.
  • Take breaks in the shade or indoors during the hottest parts of the day.
  • Apply sunscreen before going outside and reapply regularly.
  • Watch for signs of heat exhaustion, including dizziness, headaches, nausea, and unusual fatigue.
boy in sprinkler

 

Outdoor Play and Recreation

Summer activities are more fun when everyone plays safely.

  • Make sure children wear helmets when riding bicycles, scooters, skateboards, or roller skates.
  • Use knee and elbow pads when appropriate.
  • Check playground equipment for hot surfaces before children play.
  • Teach children not to run around splash pads, pools, or other slippery areas.
  • Encourage children and teens to stay aware of their surroundings when walking, biking, or exercising outdoors.
  • Use the buddy system whenever possible.
Child running at the playground

 

Home Safety

With children spending more time at home during summer break, it's a great time to review household safety.

  • Store medications, cleaning supplies, batteries, and other hazardous items out of reach.
  • Secure heavy furniture and televisions to the wall.
  • Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly.
  • Review your family's fire escape plan and emergency procedures.
  • Keep walkways free of clutter to help prevent trips and falls.

A little preparation can help prevent accidents and keep summer focused on what matters most, fun, family, and making memories together. Have a safe and happy summer!

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