Many outdoor pleasures carry health risks for children. Take precautions to help them avoid these hazards. 

Beat Bugs

• Protect against mosquitoes by keeping children indoors at dawn and dusk. Apply insect repellent with no more than 30% DEET.
• Check for ticks in hair and skin after kids spend time outdoors. Have them wear pants, long-sleeve shirts, socks and shoes in woods or tall grass.
• Get immediate medical attention for serious reactions to bee and wasp stings, such as hives, swelling in the throat, dizziness, nausea or difficulty breathing.

Stop Sunburn and Heat Sickness

• Slather kids with a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
• Dress them in light, loose-fitting clothes, wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses.
• Make sure they drink water to stay hydrated.
• Limit time outdoors when the sun’s rays are strongest—between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Swim Safely

• Watch children at all times when they are in or near water.
• Teach kids to swim or enroll them in swimming lessons.
• If you have a pool, install a fence with a self-closing and self-latching gate.

ACCIDENTS HAPPEN - BUT WHEN TO SEEK CARE? 

The CRH urgent care option at PromptMed offers quick assessment and treatment of minor cuts, sprains and strains, rashes and ailments such as influenza or strep throat. If an injury or illness is truly life-threatening, do not hesitate to call 911 or head to the nearest emergency department.