Kid's Outdoor Safety

Barbara Mull, RN
Health Education

Outdoor Fun Protection
During the warm weather when children are outside, unseen dangers lurk and children must be protected. As you head out to splash in the pool, or off on a camping trip, a day at the beach or fun at an amusement park, please take some precautions to protect your children from the outdoor hazards of sun and insects. Here are a few pointers:

Protect your child’s skin and eyes from that nice warm sun we all enjoy so much.
Babies under six months of age should never be exposed to the sun. Their sensitive skin must be protected from the sun’s burning rays. Cover your baby’s skin with proper protective clothing that covers the arms and legs completely, and a wide brimmed sun hat or bonnet to protect the head, neck and ears. In the stroller be sure to use the canopy for added protection from the sun and heat.

Children older than 1 year of age need to have sun screen applied 30 minutes before heading outside. Throughly rub in sun screen, making sure to cover all exposed areas, including your child’s face, cheeks, nose, ears, feet and the backs of the knees. Choose a sun screen that is made for children, preferably waterproof. A sun screen SPF rating of 15 or greater is the best choice. Keeping in mind the higher the SPF the more protection against the sun’s harmful rays. Re-apply sun screen frequently especially if any water activities take place.

Protect your child’s eyes with sunglasses, they aren’t just a fashion statement anymore!
Children under the age of 10 are at a high risk of skin and eye damage from Ultra Violet Rays. Buy sunglasses for your child that block both UVA and UVB rays. Only buy sunglasses that indicate the percentage of Ultra Violet Ray protection they provide. Look for “playground proof” sunglasses that have impact resistant and scratch proof lenses

The sun’s rays are strongest between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Try to keep your children out of the sun during these hours. Remember, even on overcast days, the sun’s rays still come through the clouds, so be sure to apply sun screen and have your child wear their sunglasses to protect the skin and eyes from the damaging rays.

Bugs are another concern during outdoor play. Ticks and mosquitoes are not only an annoyance, they can cause some major health problems. Ticks are known to carry Lyme Disease and a bite from a mosquito can cause West Nile Virus. To prevent insect bites don’t use scented soaps, perfumes or hair spray on your child. Do not dress your child in bright colors or flowery prints as these attract insects. Use an insect repellent that contains DEET. This is very effective in preventing insect bites and avoiding possible disease. Do not use the combination sunscreen/insect repellent products. Sunscreen needs to be re-applied frequently during outdoor play but the insect repellent should not be re-applied.. For more information on DEET go to:
http//www.aapnew.org/cgi/content/full/e200399v

Keeping your child safe in the sun does not have to be a difficult task. Just be sure to plan ahead, keep the proper skin care products and sunglasses on hand and then go out and enjoy your day.

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