Top tips for summer safety
The days are long, the weather is warm, and opportunities for summer fun abound. Yes, the season of backyard barbecues and fireworks has arrived. To make sure your crew enjoys the summer to its fullest, take time to review best practices for seasonal safety as a family.
Staying secure in every setting
• At the ballpark — Whether your child is kicking a ball or swinging a bat, make sure he or she is wearing equipment that fits properly and is in good repair. Additionally, if he or she gets bumped in the head by an object or knocks noggins with another player, you may need to consult a health-care provider. Symptoms such as blurred vision, dizziness, headache and vomiting are signs of a concussion.
• By the pool — If you have young children, keep an eye on them at all times when they are in the water. Remind everyone not to run near the edge and review the rules of diving before anyone takes the plunge. If the water is shallow, a headfirst dive is off-limits.
• In the great outdoors — Before your kids head into the woods, make sure they apply insect repellent to keep mosquitoes and ticks away. Hike in groups, stay away from plants with three leaves on a single stem, and wear hats and long-sleeved pants and shirts.
• On the beach — Young children or new swimmers should wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets when they are in or near the water. Also, remind your family to stay away from aquatic animals and plants, as they may be poisonous.
• Remember the sunscreen — In every situation where your kids will be spending time outside, they should be wearing SPF 30, broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect them from UVA and UVB rays. Also, make sure your family stays hydrated with plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration and heat stroke.
Keeping kids active
In the era of technology, many kids are tempted to spend their free time on the couch watching movies or sitting in front of a computer or TV playing video games. Yet, a sedentary summer routine can put your child at risk for obesity and associated conditions, such as breathing problems and Type 2 diabetes.
Inspire your children to get moving by staying engaged and offering fun options. Here are a few ideas:
• Play a game of flag football before dinner a few nights each week.
• Ride bikes together to explore your hometown or run errands.
• Try something new that encourages movement and interaction with others. Skateboarding and yoga classes are two great options.
The emergency room at Siloam Springs Regional Hospital is here for you and your family 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To learn more about our services, visit NorthwestHealth.com today.
Did you know you can schedule your ED visit online?
Online Check-in is available for injuries and illnesses that are not life threatening or debilitating. Just visit the NorthwestHealth.com website and click on “Online Scheduling.” Select “emergency” care, and a location. Choose a treatment time, and complete a brief online form. When you arrive at the ED or urgent care center, staff will be expecting you, and strive to see you within 15 minutes of your projected treatment time. If there is a spike in patient traffic, staff will notify you via email or automated phone call with a new projected treatment time. Those using Online Check-in aren’t seen ahead of patients already in the waiting room; rather, their names are added to the treatment list based on the time they checked-in online. Unless an individual’s illness or injury requires expedited care, patients are treated in the order they registered.