Protect your skin. Use a sunscreen that has an SPF of 30+ and reapply throughout the day when you’re outside. Wear a wide brimmed hat, sunglasses and protective clothing – even if you’re in the shade or under an umbrella. And remember, the sun’s rays can reflect up, especially near water.
Be cool. Seek the shade to avoid overheating and take breaks during the hottest part of the day – usually between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day – and before you feel thirsty (that’s often the first sign of not drinking enough). Carry a reusable water bottle.
Keep a well-stocked first aid kit handy. These kits, which usually include things like Band-Aids and dressings, antibiotic cream, scissors, tweezers, ice packs, and pain and allergy medicines, will help you respond quickly in the event of minor cuts or injuries at home and on the go.
Never leave children or pets alone in a parked car. Temperatures can heat up in minutes and be deadly.
Be water safe. Keep a constant and watchful eye on children and teens near pools, lakes and other bodies of water. Even backyard kiddie pools can be dangerous. Young children can drown in as little as 2 inches of water.
* Everyone should know how to swim. Sign kids up for a swim class – it will keep them safer and confident in the water.
* Never dive into shallow water.
* If you ever get caught in a rip current, don’t try to swim directly back to shore and against the current. Instead, swim parallel to the shoreline until you’re safely out of it. Check beach conditions before you go.
Keep bugs at bay. Use insect repellent with DEET in the ingredient list. When venturing into wooded areas, wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and pants and long socks. Do daily tick checks too.
Use care with open flames, grills and fire pits. Never let children play with matches, lighters or fireworks.
Be sure kids – and adults – wear a well-fitting helmet when riding a bike or scooter.
Take it slow when driving. Watch for kids running through the neighborhood, around playgrounds, ice cream trucks and other play spaces.
