Health & Fitness
Mansfield Mothers’ Club: Keep Summer’s Kids Safe
Today we share some brief tips from The American Academy of Pediatrics to help keeps kids in our area safe from common dangers this summer.
While our hearts go out to those affected by the Oklahoma tornadoes, we look for ways to support those in need, such as lending assistance through the Red Cross. Please email us at mansfieldmothersclub@gmail.com if you think there’s a solid support effort we should work with.
Today we share some brief tips from The American Academy of Pediatrics to help keeps kids in our area safe from common dangers this summer. Safety is always worth a reminder!
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AAP on: Sun and Water Safety Tips
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Always use sunscreen
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Wear light clothing and stay vigilant for good hydration
Use pools with fences, safety equipment and watchful adults
“Avoid inflatable swimming aids such as ‘floaties.’ They are not a substitute for approved life vests and can give children and parents a false sense of security.”
AAP on: Summer Safety Tips
Fireworks: “Families should attend community fireworks displays run by professionals rather than using fireworks at home.”
Bug spray: “The current AAP and CDC recommendation for children older than 2 months of age is to use 10% to 30% DEET. DEET should not be used on children younger than 2 months of age.”
Playgrounds:
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Make sure children cannot reach any moving parts that might pinch or trap any body part.
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Never attach—or allow children to attach—ropes, jump ropes, leashes, or similar items to play equipment; children can strangle on these. If you see something tied to the playground, remove it or call the playground operator to remove it.
Make sure your children remove helmets and anything looped around their necks
Metal, rubber and plastic products can get very hot in the summer, especially under direct sun.
Make sure slides are cool to prevent children’s legs from getting burned.
Do not allow children to play barefoot on the playground
Bicycles: “Take your child with you when you shop for the bike, so that he or she can try it out. The value of a properly fitting bike far outweighs the value of surprising your child with a new one. Buy a bike that is the right size, not one your child has to “grow into.” Oversized bikes are especially dangerous. “
“A helmet should be worn so that it is level on the head and covers the forehead, not tipped forward or backwards. The strap should be securely fastened with about 2 fingers able to fit between chin and strap.The helmet should be snug on the head, but not overly tight. Skin should move with the helmet when moved side to side. If needed, the helmet’s sizing pads can help improve the fit.”
Lawn mowers: “Do not pull the mower backward or mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary, and carefully look for children behind you when you mow in reverse. “
The AAP guidelines linked above also discuss skating and ATV safety. Also, check Safe Kids USA for other life-saving and injury-preventing tips.
Do you have other ways to remind your family about summer safety? Please add a comment here!
Jessica Symonds is president of The Mansfield Mothers' Club, a non-profit organization aimed at providing support for local parents. For more information visit http://mansfieldmothersclub.com, email mansfieldmothersclub@gmail.com or write to Mansfield Mothers' Club, P.O. Box 831, Mansfield, MA 02048.