Summertime is upon us, and sometimes the very things that make the season special can also present risks for kids and teens. From extreme heat and dehydration to sun exposure and water-related hazards, the New England summer can create unique challenges for growing children. June is National Safety Month, and Boys Town New England encourages parents and guardians to take simple, practical steps to help ensure their children have a happy, healthy, and safe summer.
With temperatures rising, outdoor activities increasing, and UV levels reaching their highest points of the year, families are encouraged to prepare for the exciting season ahead. To help, Boys Town New England has compiled five simple reminders for parents and guardians as summer vacation rapidly approaches.
Understanding Summer Safety Risks
Summertime is a season of endless possibilities - summer camp, late nights, and days by the pool. Children are often encouraged to spend more time outdoors, which can provide important opportunities for physical activity, social connection, and personal growth. However, increased time outside can also expose children and teens to a variety of safety risks.
According to Boys Town New England Executive Director Marcy Shyllon, “Summer should be fun, but it also requires families to be more intentional about safety. A lot of the biggest risks this time of year are tied to everyday activities like swimming, sports, travel and time outside, which is why it’s important for parents to plan ahead and keep safety top of mind.”
Common Summer Safety Risks Include:
- Sun exposure and heat exhausted
- Sports- and activity-related injury
- Dehydration
- Drowning and water-related accidents
- Vehicle safety and distractions for teen drivers
A little preparation today can prevent a big problem tomorrow.
Five Practical Safety Tips for Summer
Experts from Boys Town New England offer five practical safety tips to start this summer:
1. Create a Safety Plan Before the Activity Begins
Before heading out with children (pool, park, practice), set expectations and boundaries. Clearly communicate where they should go, who they should be talking to, and what to do if they feel unsafe.
2. Make Water Supervision Active, Not Assumed
Water can pose a large risk for kids - whether at the town pool or local lake always ensure that a trusted adult is watching closely and avoiding distractions. When at lakes, boats, or unfamiliar water remember to employ the use of life jackets.
3. Build Hydration and Shade Breaks Into the Day
For kids, summertime means endless hours of play and outdoor activity. Make sure children take scheduled water and shade breaks, and spend enough time in the air conditioning after they play.
4. Protect Against Sun Exposure Early and Often
During peak hours (10AM - 4PM) and times with a high UV index, try to limit direct exposure to the sun and equip children with sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and/or lightweight clothing.
5. Talk With Teens About Road Safety Before Summer Plans Pick Up
Teens can present a unique set of safety challenges as their schedules can include late nights, solo drives, and a variety of different activities. Parents and guardians are encouraged to set clear expectations for seatbelts, phone usage, passengers, and check-ins.
The Keys to a Safe & Successful Summer
Every family's summer looks different, but every family deserves a season that is both enjoyable and safe. By staying aware of common seasonal hazards and maintaining open communication, parents and guardians can help ensure that summer remains focused on what matters most - making memories, spending time together, and enjoying all the opportunities the season has to offer.