Summertime Fun Staying Safe in the Sun

We’re right smack in the absolute hottest days of the year. During the pandemic, this really does limit the options kids have available to them. Staying safe in the sun is a concern for every family. When it comes to summertime activities, it pays to plan ahead.

Staying Safe in the Sun

Let’s face it, kids love to be outside during the summer heat. That said, the sun can become scorching hot. The longer kids are exposed to the heat, it can quickly become dangerous. In order to keep the fun going, let’s chat about staying safe in the sun.

Hydration is Key

When kids run around, they use a lot of energy. As the sun bears down, it can cause them to sweat even more than usual. That means kids will sweat out a lot of liquid. This can easily lead to dehydration, which can cause lightheadedness, fatigue, irritability and more.

To stay hydrated, kids should drink plenty of fluids. You’ll want to listen to your body. Your body type and rate of activity can affect how much liquid your body requires. Obviously, water is the best solution for dehydration. The trick is to drink before you become thirsty. That sense of thirst is a warning sign from your body. Parents and active supervisors should schedule regular water breaks for kids. Ideally, these will take place indoors, to help keep little noggins out of the sun’s brutal heat. Additionally, kids should always carry a water bottle. Regular sipping can keep them staying safe in the sun.

Pool Party Safety

Summer and pool parties go hand-in-hand. That said, pools should be treated with respect and caution. After all, drowning is a leading cause of death for children under four years of age. 

To prevent any possible trouble, any adults hosting a pool party should lay down some basic ground rules. These will help keep children aware of possible dangers.

• No running.
• No splashing (children can choke when water is splashed in their face).
• Use the bathroom, not the pool.
• No rough play.
• Stay away from the pool drain.
• No diving or jumping into the pool.
• No dunking.

Sunscreen Can Save Your Skin

When it comes to staying safe in the sun, one of the best tips we can offer involves avoiding sunburns. That means taking frequent breaks and applying plenty of sunscreen. 

A particularly bad sunburn can occur more quickly than a person might expect. This is especially true during peak hours of sun exposure. Typically, the peak hours are between 10am and 2pm. Overall, it’s best to stay out of the sun during these times.

Besides, if your child gets serious sunburns, this can drastically increase the likelihood that of them ending up with skin cancer later in life. Properly applied sunscreen can help to prevent these painful burns.

Talk to Your Doctor

Staying safe in the sun can mean different things to different people. On the whole, it’s always best to consult your doctor if you are unsure about the safety a product or activity. When it comes to your personal safety and health, a doctor will always know best.