Schools out for summer and while I am sure you are busy gearing up for sports, camps, and vacations it is important to remember these summer safety tips to keep your child safe and outdoor playing all summer long. 
Recognizing heat exhaustion:
Kids get busy playing and time gets away from us and before you know it they haven’t stopped for water in several hours. 
Kids get dehydrated very fast and very easily. Heat stroke and heat exhaustion can be very dangerous. Signs of heat exhaustion include:
- Fever
- Dizzy
- Weakness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Clammy skin
- Increased thirst
If you notice any of these signs get them into a cool, shaded place, start sipping cold water and apply cool packs. Best to stay hydrated and cool!
Apply and reapply sunscreen:
Sunscreen is important to protect the skin from burns and cancer. Apply a generous amount about 30 minutes before heading outside. Even those with darker skin tones should apply sunscreen. You’re looking for broad spectrum with an SPF of at least 30 and an active ingredient of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Those under 6 months old should stay covered with hats, umbrellas, etc. (best to avoid direct sun exposure in our little ones).
Water safety: 
Keep your little’s within arms reach. Even with life guards on duty! Consider swim classes and don’t forget the life vests and flotation devices.
Keep the bugs away: 
Don’t forget the insect repellent to avoid those pesky mosquitoes! DEET-free insect repellent should be used in kids 6months and older. Fun fact- Repellents containing DEET may reduce the efficacy of sunscreens applied simultaneously.
Using some of these tips will help you have a fun and safe summer. Don’t forget to schedule your child’s well checks and back-to-school physicals as well!