AAP summer safety tips include playground, bicycle safety and more

Summer is typically full of sun and fun for children, and the AAP recently published tips to keep children safe during warm-weather activities.

Although some fireworks, such as sparklers, are thought to be safe, they can reach temperatures above 1,000°F, according to the AAP. Families should attend community fireworks displays run by professionals rather than using them at home.

To prevent bug bites, the AAP recommends parents do not use scented soaps, perfumes, or hair sprays on children. Additionally, avoid areas where insects nest or congregate, such as stagnant pools of water, uncovered food, or gardens with blooming flowers. To remove a stinger, scrape it with a credit card or fingernail to gently back it out of skin.

Regarding playground safety, the AAP reminds parents to ensure children remove helmets and anything looped around their neck before playing on a playground. Parents should always supervise children on play equipment.

The safety tips reiterate the importance of wearing a helmet while using a bicycle, no matter how short or long of a bike ride. Many injuries happen in driveways, on sidewalks, and on bike paths, according to the AAP. When purchasing a helmet, parents should ensure the helmet meets Consumer Product Safety Commission safety standards, usually indicated by a label.

As with bicycles, children using skateboards and scooters should wear protective gear, especially helmets.

Children who are too young to have a driver’s license should not be permitted to operate off-road vehicles. Thirty percent of all-terrain vehicle deaths and ED-treated injuries involve children. The AAP recommends all-terrain vehicle riders should take a hands-on safety training course.

Regarding lawn mower use, children younger than 16 years should not use ride-on mowers and children younger than 12 years should not use push mowers. Anyone who uses a lawn mower should wear hearing and eye protection. Children near running lawn mowers should also wear protective eye wear.

The AAP also published safety tips regarding children’s exposure to sun and water. To prevent sunburn among infants, avoiding sun exposure or dressing infants in lightweight long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and wide brim hats is recommended. For all other children, the best way to protect against ultraviolet radiation exposure is covering up. Further, it is recommended to apply suncreen every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.

For the complete summer safety tips, visit www.aap.org/en-us/about-the-aap/aap-press-room/news-features-and-safety-tips/Pages/Summer-Safety-Tips.aspx.

For the complete sun and water safety tips, visit www.aap.org/en-us/about-the-aap/aap-press-room/news-features-and-safety-tips/Pages/Sun-and-Water-Safety-Tips.aspx.