Tips to keep the kids safe this summer

THE WOODLANDS, Texas – Summer may have officially started on June 21, but the upcoming Fourth of July holiday embodies what the season means for many children. Activities like swimming, biking, playing with friends, parties and fireworks often surround the holiday and are what many families look forward to.

While the focus is on fun for many, it’s important for both parents and children to remember the potential dangers that come with many summertime activities. Medical Director of Emergency Services at Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Hospital Michael Bublewicz, M.D., has some tips to help ensure a safe and fun summer.

“Families that take the time to educate themselves and develop habits that reduce the risk of injury are going to enjoy their summers much more,” Dr. Bublewicz said. “Adults need to pass along proper behaviors and information to the children who so often look up to them and replicate what they see and hear. It’s obvious but necessary advice: do what you can to prevent injury.”

Water Safety

36 children have drowned in Texas this year, including 15 in pools, according to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warn that children ages 1 to 4 have the highest drowning rates and that drowning remains the second-leading cause of accidental death for children ages 1 to 14.

For tips to keep your children safe while they splash, click here.

Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are caused by exercising or playing in a hot, humid environment where the body becomes dehydrated. This is especially common in humid regions like the Greater Houston area, where water loss and dehydration can be extremely rapid. If heat exhaustion progresses to heat stroke, it can be fatal.

Click here for tips to keep your children cool during outside play.

Bike Safety

In 2012, more than 270,000 children were seen in emergency rooms for injuries from riding bicycles. More bicycle accidents occur between July and September than any other time of the year and approximately 20 percent of all bicycle injuries are accounted for by children 16 and under, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Click here for tips to protect your kids while they pedal.

Fourth of July Firework Safety

Fourth of July and fireworks go hand-in-hand, but if not handled properly, fireworks can cause serious injury. The National Safety Council estimates that children between the ages of 10 and 14 are three times more likely to suffer an injury from fireworks than the general population.

Before lighting that sparkler, study firework safety tips by clicking here.

Sun Safety

Summer is a perfect time to soak up sunshine, but too much sun exposure can be harmful and can cause skin and eye damage, immune system suppression and even skin cancer. Follow the tips here to protect your kids while they have fun in the sun.

Dr. Bublewicz sees patients at the Emergency Center at Memorial Hermann The Woodlands. For more information, call 713.897.2300 or click here.