Genesee County Health Department
Better Life Through Better Health
Keep Summer Safe
Enjoy the sun and fun of summer, but keep safety in mind.
For kids, summer is an exciting time filled with outdoor activities.
With these activities come risks. Help your children pay attention to
safety too. Many don’t worry about accidents or illness. Adults must
help them. Certain situations present greater risk than others.
- Water: Children should always be supervised by an adult
when they are near the water. It only takes a moment for a tragedy
to occur. Life vests should be worn, not tucked away. Swimming
lessons are available at local beaches and pools to increase
children's swimming skills.
- Wheels: Injuries while using inline skates, skateboards or
riding a bicycle, range from minor bumps and bruises to broken bones
and head injuries. Use safety equipment such as helmets, knee and
elbow pads and gloves to prevent many common injuries. Set
guidelines about where children can and cannot use their wheels.
Safety classes are great way to meet other children and learn about
bike, skateboarding or skating fun.
- Sunshine & Insect Bites: Use insect repellent and
sunscreen. Look for insect repellents which do not contain DEET.
Sunscreens should have an SPF value of at least 15. Minor sunburns
can be soothed with moisturizing lotions containing aloe. Children
with serious burns which blister and ooze should be seen by a health
professional. Most bug bites hurt or itch for a little while, but
others can be serious. Some people require special medicine in the
event of a bee sting. Think ahead; where will I take my child if
there is an emergency? Camp counselors, coaches and teachers need to
be aware of bee sting allergies, and what needs to be done. Most
other bites should be kept clean with soapy and water and a mild
antiseptic.
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