Summer Safety Tips from Children's Hospital and Medical Center

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SEATTLE, June 16, 1997-- Now that most children are out of school and on break, summer brings endless hours of sun and fun. Yet it's also an opportunity for both small and serious injuries from playground falls to drownings. Here are some safety tips from Children's Hospital and Medical Center that will help keep your child's summer a safe one.

1. Never leave children unattended in or near the water. Use U.S. Coast Guard approved life vests, also known as personal flotation devices (PFDs), on boats, docks, and around deep or swift water.
   
   
2. Make sure children always wear a helmet when riding a bicycle or scooter, rollerblading or skateboarding.
   
   
3. Protect children from excessive exposure to sun -- especially from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Use a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 15 or higher.
   
   
4. Supervise children whenever they use play equipment such as making sure children stay clear of the front and back of swings while in use.
   
   
5. Keep children away from areas where any lawn mowers are being used. Never allow children to ride on mowers.
   
   
6. Minimize the risk of bee and insect stings by having children wear shoes and light-colored clothing. Use insect repellent sparingly on older children and never on infants.
   
   
7. Know the plants in your yard and teach your child not to pick or eat anything without first checking with an adult. Call the Washington Poison Center at 800-732-6985 if you suspect a poisoning has occurred or to receive a list of poisonous plants.
   
   
8. Keep children from playing near barbecues and bonfires and always have water present when fire is involved. Only adults should use lighter fluid.
   
   
9. Strap children in a properly-fitting seat belt, car seat or booster seat when traveling by car or airplane.
   
   
10. BE SAFE THIS SUMMER AND HAVE FUN!!
    
    

For a free handout on "Summer Safety Tips for Children" or more information on any of these topics, call Children's Hospital Resource Line at 206-526-2500. A Children's Hospital pediatric nurse is available to discuss your questions confidentially daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. at no charge.

CONTACT: Susan Gregg-Hanson of Children's Hospital and Medical Center, 206-368-4821