Summer Safety Reminders

12658846_SWith the end of the school year freedom is within sight for children. Be sure to reinforce safety issues as school schedules give way to more free time and the summer heat comes back.

Sun Safety: Today’s sunburns lead to tomorrow’s problems with skin cancer. Set a standard approach to the sun with your children, including when and how long they spend outside and the application and regular re-application of sunscreen. For more insights, check out this FDA video about sunscreen selection and application.

Heat Safety: This can be a serious issue in the Arizona desert. Be sure to discuss drinking water with your children as heat rises. Buy water containers and thermos choices and make sure they understand the importance of staying hydrated.

Traffic Safety: Drivers without children will be startled when school’s last day brings kids out into the streets again. You may want to review the basics of pedestrian and bike safety, and make sure their bikes and bike helmets are in good repair.

Water Safety: Make sure to have a designated adult present to play lifeguard when kids are in or around a pool. Set safety rules limiting horseplay in or near a pool, with time-outs for anyone who doesn’t want to follow them. Make sure your children know how to swim and make sure you know how to handle basic first aid and CPR.

This summer can be amazing and fun for everyone in your family. With a strategy of safety, you can ensure that everyone enjoys the next few months.

Summer fun Means Observing Pool Safety

15845300_SIn July’s heat, a pool turns the backyard into an enjoyable place no matter the temperature. At the same time, pools pose a risk, particularly for toddlers. According to U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Chairman Inez Tenenbaum, “drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death for children between the ages of 1 and 4.”

Follow these steps to secure your pool to minimize the risk for your children and others in your neighborhood.

  • Make sure your pool fence is at least four feet tall or taller, with self-closing and latching gates.
  • If you have a spa, use a lockable safety cover over it.
  • Install door alarms on any doors that lead directly to your pool.
  • Use pool and gate alarms to alert you when children go in or near the pool.
  • For extra security, consider a surface wave or underwater alarm to notify you if a child or pet falls in the pool.

During parties and gatherings, include these steps in your planning to keep children playing in the pool safe.

  • Walk through basic pool safety tips with the children before the party starts – things such as no running near the pool, no hitting or kicking at each other, and no horseplay on the diving board.
  • Have the adults take turns serving as the designated lifeguard to watch when children are in the pool.
  • Check the pool or spa immediately if a child is missing.
  • Make sure that you or someone in your family has basic CPR training

The best way to keep your children safe around a pool is to make sure they know how to swim. Even very small children can learn basic floating techniques. With just a little effort, you can do your best to keep your family safe and happy and swimming all summer.

Holiday Safety Tips

Happy holidays can quickly disappear when safety is not given priority. Just a few precautions can keep your holiday celebrations merry. Here are a few basics.

Trees: If you want a live tree, choose one that is very fresh and free of mold. Before you buy your choice, shake the tree gently. If green needles fall, the tree is too old already. Also check the trunk for signs of mold and check for a musty smell. Sometimes storing them for too long or in less-than-optimal conditions leads to trees that are dry enough to be fire hazards. If you find more than one or two trees with these problems, find another lot. To keep your tree fresh for the rest of the season, cut at least one inch from the bottom of the trunk, and make sure your tree holder can handle at least a gallon of water. Check and fill the water daily.

Lights: Never put electric lights on a metallic tree. Never string more than three sets of lights together. Throw away any light sets or extension cords that are damaged or worn. Consider LED lights because they are cool to the touch. Make sure cords don’t become tripping hazards.

Decorations: If your household has children or pets, pay attention to the ornament and decoration choices. Small glass balls look tempting and can draw the attention of children. Tinsel can also prove a real risk to pets that will eat anything that looks interesting.

Take a few minutes to factor safety into your holiday plans and you and your family can have a holly jolly time!