Keep your kids and yourself summertime-safe

Summer should be that time of year when everyone in the family can enjoy the “Three R’s.” (No, not those.) The other three: Rest, relaxation and recreation. Yes, summer can be a time of great fun, but there are hazards lurking out there that can put a damper on the enjoyment. By taking a few simple precautions, parents, children, relatives and friends can make the most of the balmy days of the year.

Here are a few safety tips for enjoying some of the most common outdoor, warm-weather activities:

Walking, hiking and heat— Your body can sweat up to two and a half gallons of water per day in extreme heat, and the liquid needs to be replaced. When walking, hiking or engaging in any strenuous outdoor activity, make sure you hydrate throughout the day. This is especially important after exercise, sports or intense yard work. Pay attention to the color of your urine–it should be clear or very pale yellow. Stay ahead of things–by the time you’re thirsty, you’re already possibly dehydrated and playing catchup. Heat and humidity in the summer months affect almost everything in your daily routine. Plan walks or outdoor play for the morning before the day heats up, or for late afternoon when the day starts to cool down. Make a list of shaded or indoor activities for the hottest part of the day–think bubbles or reading on a blanket under your favorite tree.

Cycling in safety— If your youngster rides a bike, have him or her wear bright or light-colored clothing so he or she is easily visible. Encourage children to walk bikes across the street instead of riding, making their direction more predictable for vehicle drivers. A helmet is a must–get your kids into the habit and model it for them yourself when you’re riding. A helmet should be replaced every five years or so: If your child needs a first-time helmet or a replacement and cost is an issue, check with your insurance carrier to see if the company offers free helmets.

Bodies of water and swimming— Remind older children to stay back from river and creek banks, and lakeshores and ponds, when by themselves, and always help younger children explore these areas with an adult. Safety experts stress that it’s important to help children understand that just because they’re near the edge doesn’t mean the water is shallow. You can step into water that’s over your head right next to the bank. Talk with children about river currents and ocean riptides to help them develop awareness of and respect for these dangers. Babies, toddlers and young children should always be supervised around water, including bathtubs and wading pools. Water safety awareness starts in the bathtub when babies are able to sit independently. Even when they’re pre-verbal, talk about why you are staying close, and the importance of your child staying seated and having good listening ears. When it’s time for actual swimming, babies, toddlers and young children should always be supervised, whether it’s in a shallow baby pool in the backyard, an above-ground or an in-ground pool, a swimming area in a park or at the beach. Choose a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD) for your child, and avoid “swimmies” that offer children a false sense of security or a perceived ability to swim. When possible, seek out swimming lessons -- check your local recreation department, the YMCA or local state parks.