Summer is an excellent time to stay active with your loved ones. But while you’re out at the beach, on a hike, or relaxing in your backyard, you should still remain vigilant over your family’s health and safety. Over The Rainbow Kids Place, a premier day care center in West Henrietta, NY, explains how you can practice a safe, fun summer with your young ones.

5 Summer Safety Tips for Families

1. Stay Hydrated

It’s hot and humid out there, and you’re losing a lot of fluids through sweating. Avoid dehydration, overheating, and severe heat-related illnesses by ensuring everyone is drinking plenty of water. When looking for signs of dehydration in children, watch for any lethargy, dizziness, or complaints of a dry or sticky mouth.

2. Keep Bites at Bay

Whether you’re going fishing or playing games in the yard, your family is at risk for bites and parasites. Mosquitos and ticks can spread harmful illnesses like the West Nile virus, Zika virus, and Lyme disease. Use insect repellents containing DEET when your family is outdoors, and check yourself and your children for ticks when you return home.

3. Always Use Sunscreen

Some only feel the need to use sunscreen on hot, sunny days, but UV rays can be damaging even when it’s cloudy. Use sunscreen of at least SPF 30, as well as UVA and UVB protection. Clothing such as wide-brim hats and sunglasses provide effective sun protection. Apply sunscreen to your child before dropping them off at day care, especially when you know they’ll be playing outdoors.

4. Check in Before Travel

Going on vacations during the summer is an exciting way for the family to take a break from the daily routine. But before you leave, check in with a doctor to make sure everyone is healthy enough to travel. Illnesses may postpone your trip, and special health needs or injuries might require some extra preparation.

5. Practice Water Safety

Cooling off in the water is the perfect way to beat the summer heat. However, it’s important that your family masters water safety before jumping in. No one should swim alone, and young children should always be supervised and wear flotation devices. Teach your child how to swim or sign them up for lessons. Follow posted rules at the beach, lake, or pool you’re visiting.

If you need a secure place for your child to stay during the day, Over The Rainbow Kids Place is the reliable day care your family is looking for. These child care professionals are MAT (Medical Administration Training) certified to ensure your child is healthy, safe, and happy indoors and out. Even on summer break, kids will continue learning important life skills while getting the exercise and play they need. To learn more about their summer day care programs, call (585) 334-2530 or visit their website.