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Essential Summer Safety Tips for Kids and Families in North Riverside, Illinois, and the Western Suburbs of Chicago
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Welcome to FGM Pediatrics, your trusted source of health and safety information! As the summer season approaches, it's important for parents and caregivers in North Riverside, Illinois, and the Western Suburbs of Chicago to be well-prepared for keeping their children safe during outdoor adventures and family outings. In this blog post, we'll provide you with essential summer safety tips tailored specifically for families in our area. Let's dive in!
Sun Safety:
Sunscreen: Protect your little ones from harmful UV rays by applying sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before heading outdoors. Reapply every two hours after swimming or sweating.
Protective Clothing: Dress your kids in lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses to shield them from the sun.
Seek Shade: Encourage children to take breaks in shaded areas to prevent sunburn and overheating.
Hydration:
Keep children hydrated throughout the day by providing water and limiting sugary drinks. Pack water bottles when going to parks or engaging in outdoor activities.
Encourage regular water breaks, especially during intense physical activities.
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Water Safety:
Pool Safety: Always supervise children when they are near water. Enroll them in swimming lessons to improve their water skills and consider installing pool barriers at home.
Water Recreation: Teach kids about the importance of wearing life jackets while boating or participating in water sports
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Beach Safety: Observe beach warnings, swim in designated areas, and stay vigilant of changing tides.
Outdoor Safety:
Tick and Mosquito Protection: Apply insect repellent with DEET or other recommended ingredients to prevent bug bites. Check for ticks after spending time in wooded or grassy areas.
Allergies: Be aware of common allergens in the area and take necessary precautions, such as carrying antihistamines or an epinephrine auto-injector if your child has known allergies.
Heat Safety:
Limit Outdoor Time: Schedule outdoor activities during cooler times of the day, such as mornings or evenings.
Dress Appropriately: Choose lightweight, breathable clothing and hats to keep children cool.
Stay Cool Indoors: Seek air-conditioned spaces when temperatures rise.
Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety:
Helmet Use: Ensure your child wears a properly fitted helmet while biking, skateboarding, or using any wheeled devices.
Road Safety: Teach kids about traffic rules, crosswalks, and the importance of looking both ways before crossing the street.
Fireworks Safety:
Attend Public Displays: Instead of using personal fireworks, enjoy public firework displays to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.
With these essential summer safety tips in mind, families in North Riverside, Illinois, and the Western Suburbs of Chicago can enjoy a fun-filled and safe summer. Remember to prioritize sun protection, hydration, water safety, and general outdoor precautions to ensure your child's well-being. If you have any concerns or questions, don't hesitate to reach out to us at FGM Pediatrics. Have a fantastic summer!