Summertime usually involves
water recreation, which can be a source of great family fun. It also poses some
dangers.
So it is important to teach
your children water safety rules, to help protect them when boating, swimming,
or enjoying other water sports.
First, have children learn to
swim, but never alone — use the buddy system.
They should know the items that
can be used to help save someone in trouble — a rope, an oar, a branch, or a life
preserver, for example.
They should never swim where
there is no lifeguard on duty. When on a boat, they should always wear a life
jacket and stay seated.
Another great danger associated
with water sports has to do with the sun. Many people believe that a tan looks
healthy, but prolonged exposure to the summer sun can be very dangerous.
In fact, excessive sun exposure
during the first 20 years of life is a key risk factor for all skin cancer. And
young children are especially vulnerable.
To help protect your children,
keep infants up to six months old out of the sun or shaded from it. For young
children, use sunscreen liberally, at least 30 minutes before exposure, and
reapply often.
Use extra protection in areas
with reflective surfaces such as water.
And beware: A cloud cover only
partially reduces radiation. The sun won’t feel warm until it is already too
late.
With the right precautions,
summer can be a time of fun and enjoyment for all ages.
