Summer Safety Tips for Parents: Expert Advice from Pillar Health and Kenosha Community Health Center

Whether you’re hitting the beach, the trails, or just hanging out in the backyard, Pillar Health and Kenosha Community Health Center have your family covered with expert advice for a safe, healthy summer in Southeast Wisconsin.

Sun & Heat Safety

When the sun is shining, keep these heat safety basics in mind:

• Apply Sunscreen Regularly: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
  
• Dress Appropriately: Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-protective sunglasses.
  
• Stay Hydrated: Encourage children to drink water every 15–20 minutes during outdoor activities.
  
• Plan Activities Wisely: Schedule outdoor play during cooler parts of the day, typically before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m.
• Recognize Heat-Related Illnesses: Be aware of signs like dizziness, nausea, or excessive sweating, and seek shade or air-conditioned environments when necessary.

Water Safety

If water is part of your summer fun, make sure to stay safe near pools, lakes, and splash pads:

• Supervise Constantly: Always watch children near water. Designate a “Water Watcher” who remains undistracted and sober.
• Enroll in Swim Lessons: Programs like the Kenosha YMCA’s Safety Around Water can equip children with essential swimming skills.
• Use Life Jackets: Ensure children wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets when boating or near open water.
• Educate About Water Hazards: Teach children about the dangers of swimming in unfamiliar areas and the importance of following posted warnings.

Bug & Tick Prevention

Pesky bugs and ticks can put a damper on outdoor play—here’s how to protect your family:

• Apply Insect Repellent: Use EPA-approved repellents containing DEET or picaridin.
  
• Wear Protective Clothing: Dress in long sleeves and pants when in wooded or grassy areas.
  
• Perform Regular Checks: After outdoor activities, check for ticks on the body and scalp.
• Maintain Yard Cleanliness: Keep grass trimmed and remove standing water to reduce mosquito breeding grounds.

Outdoor Activity Safety

Backyard fun, biking, and playground time? Don’t forget these outdoor safety tips:

• Wear Helmets: Ensure children wear properly fitted helmets when biking, skateboarding, or rollerblading.
  
• Inspect Play Equipment: Regularly check playgrounds for hazards like loose bolts or sharp edges.
  
• Set Boundaries: Teach children to stay within designated play areas and away from streets or driveways. If they must cross the street, cross at the corner.
• Supervise Young Children: Always keep an eye on younger kids during outdoor play to prevent accidents.

Food Safety

Warm weather calls for outdoor meals—follow these food safety tips for healthy summer snacking:

• Practice Proper Hygiene: Wash hands before handling food and after outdoor activities.
  
• Keep Foods at Safe Temperatures: Use coolers with ice packs to store perishable items during picnics.
  
• Avoid Cross-Contamination: Use separate utensils and plates for raw and cooked foods.
  
• Cook Thoroughly: Ensure meats are cooked to safe internal temperatures using a food thermometer.

Fireworks & Fire Safety

As fireworks light up the sky, it’s important to celebrate safely:

• Attend Public Displays: Enjoy fireworks at community events rather than setting them off at home.
  
• Keep a Safe Distance: Maintain a safe distance from fireworks and ensure children do the same. The same goes for outdoor grilling areas.
  
• Store Matches and Lighters Safely: Keep these items out of children’s reach to prevent accidental fires.
• Educate About Fire Hazards: Teach children the dangers of playing with fire and the importance of fire safety.

Emergency Preparedness

Being prepared can help keep your family safe when the unexpected happens:

• Stay Informed: Monitor local weather forecasts and be aware of severe weather warnings.
  
• Create an Emergency Plan: Discuss with your family what to do in case of emergencies like storms or power outages.
  
• Assemble an Emergency Kit: Include essentials like water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and a first-aid kit.
• Know Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of important phone numbers accessible to all family members.

• Pillar Health Kenosha Clinic – (262) 771-1700
• KCHC 14th Avenue Kenosha Clinic – (262) 771-1688
• KCHC 22nd Avenue Kenosha Clinic – (262) 771-0070

Silver Lake Location – Home of Well-Child Wednesdays:

• KCHC 2nd Street Silver Lake Clinic (Behind Dairy Queen) – (262) 771-1963
  Offering dedicated Well-Child Wednesday appointments with Jenell Jackley, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, along with availability for sick child visits.

Call 262-656-0044 to schedule your appointment today.