The lazy days of summer are here! With the right preparation, summertime can be a relaxing safe for you and your family. Here are some ways to avoid seasonal mishaps.

1. Protect Baby When in the Sun
First, avoid being in the sun between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., and stay in a shaded area. Dress baby in a hat, sunglasses, and clothing made with a tight weave.

How to Treat: If your child does get a sunburn, the best remedies are cold compresses, over-the-counter pain relievers, and aloe preparations.

2. Keep Kids Cool
As temperatures rise, heat exhaustion becomes a concern. Symptoms include fatigue, extreme thirst, and muscle cramping. If a person doesn't cool down and rehydrate herself, heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke (signs are headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and lack of sweat), which is potentially fatal.

How to Treat: If you notice heat illnesses in kids, spray them with cold water from a bottle or hose, fan them, and get them into the shade.

 
3. Guard Against Burns
About half of all accidental burns that occur each year happen to kids under age 4. That's why you shouldn't leave a small child unattended around hot appliances, such as a grill or a stove.

How to Treat:  To care for these minor burns, hold the area under running cool tap water for about five to 10 minutes. There's no need to use ointments or apply ice, as this can lead to frostbite and delay healing. Place a loose, sterile dressing over the site, and keep it clean with soap and water as it heals.

4. Bug Bites
When outside, cover children with lightweight clothing and use mosquito netting over strollers and infant seats. Ticks are also a concern, so check your child's body for them at the end of each day spent outside. Apply the repellent once a day.

5. Steer Clear of Food Poisoning
If you're outside at a picnic and can't wash your hands (or your kids' hands), use an antibacterial hand gel. Clean all raw fruits and vegetables, and keep raw meats separate from cooked foods. Cook all food thoroughly. If you're marinating food, make sure it's in the refrigerator or a cooler.

How to Treat: Signs of food poisoning include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Usually there's blood in the stool, as well as a fever. If you suspect that your child has it, contact his doctor. Treatment involves fluids, rest, and a bland diet, but the illness may require medical attention.
 

6. First-Aid Kit Essentials
What better time to stock a first-aid kit than at the start of the summer season, when many accidents occur. While you can't prevent all accidents, you can be prepared. Here is a list of helpful things to include:
• Band-Aids
• Antibacterial gel or foam
• Antibiotic ointment
• Sterile gauze pads
• Adhesive tape
• Tweezers
• Cold packs

Enjoy Summer and stay safe!

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