How to keep kids safe this summer at outdoor activities

As Ohio begins to reopen and the weather warms up, outdoor play will become more popular. While playing in pools and parks is fun, it’s important to keep children safe. Mercy Chong, MD, pediatrician with Kettering Health Network, provides some tips for taking care of children while outside.

How can adults keep children safe in the water?

Dr. Chong: The most important water safety rule is to have a designated “water watcher” — an adult who oversees all swimmers. For younger kids, this adult should stay within arm’s reach.

When on boats, docks or near natural bodies of water, children should always wear an appropriately fitting life jacket. Blow-up water wings, toys and rafts should not be used as life jackets or floatation devices. Adults should also wear life jackets not only for their own protection but also to set a

good example.

What should parents know about kids playing in the sun?

Sun protection is important when kids are outside, even on cloudy days. Although clouds can block UVB (the burning rays), they do not block UVA (the tanning rays).

Try to avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., and if possible, use sun protective clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection. For skin that is exposed, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Apply to every part of the skin except eyelids (don’t forget ears and lips). Be careful with spray sunscreens so kids do not inhale the fumes— try spraying into your hand and then applying it to the face.

Apply sunscreen 20to 30 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply every two hours or more often if going in water.

Infants should be kept out of direct sunlight and covered by protective clothing whenever possible. Infants over 6 months of age can also have sunscreen applied to potentially exposed areas.

How much water should my child drink?

Water is important for proper function of every part of your body — more than half of a child’s body weight is water. Although there is no exact set amount of water recommended for children, a good rule of thumb is to aim for about one 8-ounce cup of water for every year of their age, up to 64 ounces for kids 8 or older. If your child doesn’t want to drink plain water, then try adding a bit of fruit for flavor (lemons, limes, apples or berries).

Kettering Health Network is a faith-based, not-forprofit healthcare system. The network has eight hospitals: Grandview, Kettering, Sycamore, Southview, Greene Memorial, Fort Hamilton, Kettering Behavioral Health and Soin.