Summer in Southeast Wisconsin means beach days, neighborhood parks, backyard barbecues, and plenty of outdoor adventures.
While the season offers endless opportunities for family fun, it also brings health and safety risks that parents should keep in mind.
Pillar Health and Kenosha Community Health Center are committed to helping families throughout Kenosha, Racine, Silver Lake, and surrounding communities stay safe and healthy all summer long. From sun protection and water safety to tick prevention and emergency preparedness, these expert tips can help your family enjoy a safer summer.
Sun and Heat Safety for Wisconsin Families
Hot and humid summer days can increase the risk of dehydration, sunburn, and heat-related illness. Children are especially vulnerable because they may not recognize the signs of overheating until symptoms become serious.
When spending time outdoors, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply it every two hours, especially after swimming or excessive sweating. Lightweight clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-protective sunglasses can provide additional protection from harmful rays.
Hydration is equally important. Encourage children to drink water regularly throughout the day, even if they don’t feel thirsty. If temperatures climb into the upper 80s or 90s, consider planning outdoor activities during the cooler morning or evening hours. If your child develops dizziness, nausea, headache, or unusual fatigue, move them into a cool environment and seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
Parents should also remember that no child or pet should ever be left unattended in a vehicle. Even on mild days, temperatures inside a parked car can become dangerous within minutes.
Water Safety Near Pools, Lakes, and Splash Pads
Water activities are a favorite part of summer across Kenosha County and Racine County, but they require constant supervision. Whether your family is visiting a neighborhood pool, enjoying a day at Lake Michigan, or cooling off at a local splash pad, active adult supervision is essential.
Experts recommend assigning a designated “Water Watcher” whenever children are near water. This adult should remain focused on supervision without distractions from phones, conversations, or other activities.
Swimming lessons can help children build confidence and develop life-saving skills. Families should also ensure that children wear properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets when boating or spending time near open water. Before entering any lake or beach area, pay attention to weather conditions, water quality alerts, and posted safety warnings.
Protecting Your Family from Mosquitoes and Ticks
Outdoor activities in Southeast Wisconsin often mean increased exposure to mosquitoes and ticks. Parents can reduce risks by using EPA-approved insect repellents and encouraging children to wear protective clothing when hiking, camping, or exploring wooded areas.
After spending time outdoors, perform a thorough tick check, paying special attention to the scalp, behind the ears, under the arms, and behind the knees. Keeping grass trimmed and removing standing water around your home can also help reduce mosquito populations and create a safer outdoor environment.
Safe Outdoor Play and Recreation
Summer is a great time for children to ride bikes, visit playgrounds, and enjoy neighborhood activities. To prevent injuries, children should always wear properly fitted helmets when biking, skateboarding, scootering, or rollerblading.
Parents should routinely inspect playground equipment for hazards and remind children about safety for themselves and others when crossing streets or riding near traffic. Bright clothing and reflective gear can help improve visibility during evening activities.
Summer Food Safety
Outdoor gatherings and family cookouts are a summer tradition throughout Kenosha, Racine, and Silver Lake. Proper food handling can help prevent foodborne illnesses that often increase during warmer weather.
Wash hands frequently before preparing food, keep perishable items refrigerated or stored in coolers with ice packs, and use separate utensils for raw and cooked foods. When grilling, use a food thermometer to ensure meats reach safe internal temperatures before serving.
Fireworks and Fire Safety
Summer celebrations frequently include fireworks, bonfires, and outdoor grilling. Families are encouraged to attend professional fireworks displays. Using consumer fireworks at home such as roman candles, firecrackers, bottle rockets, mortars, including anything that explodes or leaves the ground is illegal in Wisconsin without a permit.
Children should maintain a safe distance from fireworks, grills, and fire pits at all times. Matches and lighters should be stored securely and out of reach. Teaching children basic fire safety practices can help prevent accidents and injuries throughout the season.
Mental Wellness and Healthy Summer Routines
While summer offers a break from school schedules, maintaining healthy routines remains important for children and teens. Consistent sleep schedules, regular physical activity, and opportunities for social interaction can support emotional well-being.
Parents should also monitor screen time and encourage a healthy balance between technology use and outdoor activities. Open conversations about mental health can help children feel supported and connected throughout the summer months.
Emergency Preparedness for Wisconsin Weather
Summer weather in Wisconsin can change quickly. Thunderstorms, flooding, high winds and power outages can occur with little warning.
Families should stay informed through local weather alerts and be prepared for severe weather emergencies. An emergency kit containing water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, medications, and first-aid supplies can help families respond quickly when unexpected situations arise.
Schedule Your Child’s Summer Checkup or Sports Physical Before School Starts
Summer is the perfect time to schedule annual wellness visits, sports physicals, and school-required immunizations before the busy back-to-school season begins.
Routine preventive care helps children stay healthy, supports proper growth and development, and ensures families are prepared for the upcoming school year.
Find a Location Near You
- Pillar Health Kenosha Clinic: (262) 771-1700
- KCHC 22nd Avenue Kenosha Clinic: (262) 771-0070
- KCHC 14th Avenue Kenosha Clinic: (262) 771-1688
- KCHC 2nd Street Silver Lake Clinic: (262) 771-1963
- Pillar Health Racine Clinic: (262) 771-0035
Appointments are available daily throughout the summer for well-child visits, sports physicals, immunizations, preventive care, and routine healthcare needs.
Wisconsin School Vaccine Requirements for the 2026-2027 School Year
Wisconsin students are required to meet state immunization requirements before attending school. Required vaccines include:
- Polio
- Hepatitis B
- DTaP/Tdap (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis)
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
- Varicella (Chickenpox)
- MenACWY (Meningococcal vaccine for students entering 7th and 12th grade)
Summer is a great time to schedule well-child visits, sports physicals, and vaccine appointments before the back-to-school rush. Families can check with their healthcare provider to ensure children are up to date and ready for the 2026-2027 school year.
Source: Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) School Immunization Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions About Summer Safety in Southeast Wisconsin
