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With schools ending for summer vacation it's time to start thinking about things like summer activities and water safety.
If you're going to be outside all day, maybe a trip to the zoo or a day at the beach, don't forget your sunscreen. Especially for young kids, sunburns aren't just painful they're dangerous. Be sure to reapply your sunscreen every 2 – 4 hours; once in the morning will not keep you protected for the entire day, especially when the sun is highest in the sky, from about noon until 3pm. Be sure to bring a water bottle too, one that can be easily refilled. Children don't always recognize when they're thirsty, especially if they're outside having fun. The more time children spend in sunny, hot weather the more water they should drink to avoid dehydration. It's also a good idea to spray yourself down with bug repellant if you'll be near water that isn't chlorinated, mosquitoes love lakes and rivers.
Swimming pools are a great way to relax and have fun in the warm weather. Always keep an eye on your swimmers though, even if they've had lessons. Kids should never be left alone near water and flotation devices should never be used as substitutions for supervision. Be sure to have a phone near by with emergency numbers programmed in it. Kids love to splash around until they're wrinkled like raisins, just make sure to get plenty of water and starches in them so they don't become dehydrated or cranky from low blood sugar. Pack some granola bars, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, string cheese, and fruit so there are plenty for when they get out of pool.
For nature hikes and runs at the dog park, take a hat with you. They'll keep your face out of the sun and help keep you cool. A brightly colored hat will also make spotting the kids easier in big crowds. If you're going somewhere where there will be lots of people, like an amusement park, make sure to designate a meeting place incase someone gets lost. Keep a first aid kit in your bag for any scraped elbows or skinned knees. You can put a small one together easily by grabbing a sealable plastic bag and tossing in some Band-Aids and antibacterial ointment. Now get out there and enjoy the long hot days of summer!
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