Play it Safe this Summer

Now that the weather is warm, children are looking for new adventures. As a kid, the main concern is finding out what is under the nearest rock or around the corner and down the street. As a parent, the main concern is making sure your child is safe in all of their adventures. Preferred Care cares about helping you keep your children healthy and safe. A few simple precautions can prevent injuries can help your child ‘play it safe’ this summer.

Biking and Rollerblading

• Always make sure that your child wears a bike helmet. It should be part of your child’s get-ready routine, because it can save your child’s life.
• To prevent those scrapes and bruises, elbow pads and kneepads also are recommended, especially for children under the age of 13. The same elbow and knee pads can be used for a child who likes to rollerblade.

Swimming

• Summer for many kids means fun in the water. Make sure that your child has the proper flotation device and that it is working properly.
• Make sure that your child is closely supervised at all times. This greatly reduces the risk of drowning.

Team Sports

• Do an equipment check before the season begins - make sure that your child has all of the correct apparel and that each piece is in good condition.
• Pay special attention to footwear, as well. Shoes should provide adequate foot support and shock absorption, and be replaced during growth spurts.

Your Summer First Aid Kit

It is always a good idea to have a properly-equipped first aid kit. Include the following in a first aid kit at home, in your car, and in a bag that you take to your child’s summer activities:

• Sterile gauze and first aid tape to hold gauze in place
• Bandages in several sizes
• Elastic bandage (Ace® bandage)
• Antiseptic wipes, antibiotic crème or antiseptic solution (like hydrogen peroxide)
• Hydrocortisone cream (1%) to stop the itch of bug bites and rashes
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) and aspirin
• Extra prescription medications (if the family is on vacation)
• Disposable instant cold packs
• Calamine lotion to treat poison ivy and rashes
• Thermometer
• Plastic gloves (at least 2 pair)
• Insect-repelling spray or wipes
• Sunscreen
• Aloe Vera gel for sunburn
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First-aid manual
• Your list of emergency phone numbers

Last updated: June 2004