Preventing Summer Emergency Room Trips for Kids

Summer is a time for fun and outdoor activities, but it also brings an increased risk of injuries for children. With kids spending more time swimming, biking, playing on trampolines, and engaging in other summer activities, the potential for accidents rises. Here are some common summer hazards and tips on how to prevent emergency room trips for kids.

Swimming with No Supervision

Swimming is a favorite summer activity for many children, but it can be dangerous without proper supervision. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death for children ages 1-4. To prevent these tragedies:

• Always supervise children when they are in or near water. Never leave them unattended, even for a moment.
• Teach children to swim. Enrolling kids in swimming lessons can significantly reduce the risk of drowning.
• Ensure pool areas are secure. Fences with self-closing gates and pool covers can prevent unsupervised access.
• Equip kids with life jackets. Use life jackets for young or inexperienced swimmers, especially in open or rough water.

Biking without a Helmet

Biking is another popular summer activity that comes with risks, particularly head injuries. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of head injury by more than 50%. To keep kids safe:

• Always wear a helmet. Ensure the helmet fits properly and is worn correctly every time they ride.
• Teach bike safety rules. Educate children about traffic signals, signs, and the importance of riding on the right side of the road.
• Use reflective gear. Equip bikes and clothing with reflectors to increase visibility, especially during early morning or evening rides.
• Regularly check bike equipment. Ensure brakes, tires, and other parts are in good working condition.

Forgetting to Apply Sunscreen

Sunburns are common in the summer and can lead to long-term skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends:

• Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen. Use SPF 30 or higher and reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
• Wear protective clothing. Long sleeves, hats, and sunglasses can provide additional protection.
• Seek shade. Limit exposure to direct sunlight, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV rays are strongest.

Using Fireworks

Fireworks are a quintessential part of summer celebrations but can be extremely dangerous. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports thousands of injuries each year from fireworks, many of which involve children. To prevent injuries:

• Leave fireworks to the professionals. Attend public displays rather than using fireworks at home.
• Supervise any use of fireworks. If using fireworks is legal in your area, ensure children are kept at a safe distance and that an adult handles all fireworks.
• Use sparklers with caution. Even sparklers can cause serious burns. Consider safer alternatives like glow sticks.

Playing on Trampolines

Trampolines are a fun summer activity but come with a high risk of injury. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises against the use of trampolines for recreational purposes. If you do use a trampoline:

• Always supervise. Ensure an adult is present to monitor trampoline use.
• Limit the number of jumpers. Allow only one child on the trampoline at a time to prevent collisions.
• Use safety nets and padding. These can help prevent falls and injuries.
• Teach proper jumping techniques. Encourage children to jump in the center and avoid flips and somersaults.

Dehydration

Dehydration can quickly become a serious issue during the hot summer months, especially for active children. To keep kids hydrated and healthy:

• Encourage regular water breaks. Ensure kids drink water before, during, and after outdoor activities.
• Provide hydrating foods. Fruits like watermelon and oranges can help keep kids hydrated.
• Limit sugary and caffeinated beverages. These can contribute to dehydration.

Prevent Accidents and Have a Safe Summer

By taking these precautions, you can help ensure that your children enjoy a fun and safe summer. Supervision, education, and proper safety measures are key to preventing accidents and avoiding emergency room trips. Always stay vigilant and prepared, and don’t hesitate to seek professional medical advice if an injury does occur. Summer should be a time of joy and relaxation, not hospital visits. By prioritizing safety, you can make sure it stays that way for your family.

If an injury does happen while your child was in the care of someone else and got injured due to the supervising adult’s negligence, it’s crucial to know your options for legal recourse. Consulting with an Oklahoma City personal injury attorney, can provide guidance on your next steps and ensure that your rights are protected.