Dignity Health | St. Rose Dominican | Reach | Summer 2018

StRoseHospitals.org  5 Ah, to be a carefree kid of summer. “Encourage children to play every day,” says Emily Peterson, DO, FAAP, a licensed pediatrician with Dignity Health Medical Group Nevada. “At the same time, remember that many activities call for caution on the part of parents and caregivers.” For instance: Be water-wise. Children of all ages need a responsible adult to supervise them when around water. Children can drown quickly. So watch kids at all times, and avoid distractions—such as looking at your phone—even if lifeguards are on duty. Never let kids swim in canals or other swift water. If your family goes boating, everyone needs to wear a life jacket. Insist on helmets. Children need bike helmets—even when riding in driveways. Also make sure they have helmets and other protective gear for skates, skateboards, and scooters. School them on road safety. Teach kids the road rules for cyclists. They should know to: ride on the right (facing the same direction as traffic), obey all traffic signs, stay alert, and wear bright clothing. And they shouldn’t ride at night. Mind the heat. Steer kids to shade whenever possible. Provide plenty of water to drink when kids are active in the heat. Never leave children alone in a car or let them play in an unattended vehicle. If SUMMER VACATION! Keep kiddos safe you see a child left alone in a hot vehicle, call the police. Give playgrounds a safety check. Is there cushioning to soften falls, such as safety mats, sand, or wood chips? Are bolts or other sharp surfaces sticking out? When in doubt, pick another place to play. Even a well-maintained playground may get too hot, and some materials can get scorching enough to burn skin. Always check the heat of surfaces and equipment before letting kids play. Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics; American College of Emergency Physicians; National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Hello humankindness. Find a St. Rose Dominican pediatrician who cares for kids and connects through kindness. Call 702.616.4900 . Emily Peterson, DO, FAAP Leave fireworks to the pros Even sparklers can burn hotter than 1,000 degrees! Check out professional fireworks displays, and skip the DIY thing.