Summer is the season for outdoor fun, but it also brings a few safety concerns we all need to keep in mind—especially when it comes to kids. Here’s a quick guide to help you protect your children from the most common summer hazards:

🌊 Water Safety

• Always supervise children near water—no exceptions.
• Make sure kids wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets around lakes, rivers, or boats.
• Enroll your child in swim lessons to boost confidence and skills in the water.
• Teach kids never to swim alone and to follow pool or beach rules.

☀️ Sun Safety

• Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher; apply 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours.
• Provide hats, sunglasses, and lightweight long-sleeved clothing for added protection.
• Encourage play in the shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).

🦟 Mosquito Bite Prevention

• Use EPA-approved insect repellents. DEET is most effective; alternatives include picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• Empty standing water around your home to reduce mosquito breeding sites.
• Dress kids in long sleeves and pants during early morning and evening outings.

🪱 Tick Bite Prevention

• Avoid tall grass and wooded areas when possible; stay on marked trails.
• Use tick-repellent spray on clothing and exposed skin.
• Do a full-body tick check after outdoor play—especially behind ears, around the waist, and in hair.
• Remove ticks promptly with fine-tipped tweezers. Ticks attached less than 36 hours are unlikely to spread Lyme disease.

🐝 Bee Sting Safety

• Teach kids to stay calm and move away slowly if bees or wasps are nearby—no swatting!
• Keep food and drinks covered outdoors.
• If stung, remove the stinger, clean the area, and apply ice. Watch for allergic reactions and seek medical attention if necessary.

☀️ A Safe Summer Is a Happy Summer

With a few precautions, your kids can have a summer full of laughter, adventure, and sunshine—with fewer worries along the way!

Stay safe and have fun!