With the warmer weather and with the sun out, we’re spending more and more time outside. This means remembering to stay sun smart!
Use Sunscreen
Remembering to apply sunscreen is the first step to proper sun protection, but which sunscreen is best?
Look for an SPF of at least 30 that screens out both UVA and UVB rays. This is the most important consideration.
Sunscreen sprays, while convenient, should be used with caution. They apply thinner than a cream-based sunscreen and therefore provide less protection. In addition, some sprays are flammable so flames and sparks should be avoided when applying them.
Infants should be kept out of the sun as much as possible. Cover them in lightweight clothing, a hat, and sunscreen for any remaining exposed skin. Please note that sunscreen should be avoided for infants under 6 months.
Remember to reapply often – once every two hours or sooner if your child has been swimming. Apply generously and don’t worry about making the bottle last. You should toss out any unused sunscreen after it expires as it won’t protect from the sun.
Dress Appropriately
Dressing right for the sun can also help reduce damage incurred from the sun. Hats and long loose-fitting clothing can help protect your child’s skin from the sun.
Don’t forget your child’s sunglasses either! Protect their eyes from the glare of the sun.
Stay Hydrated
If you are out in the sun all day with your children, remember to bring drinking water for the whole family. Staying hydrated is an important part of staying happy and healthy in the sun. At Childventures, we provide water for all children to drink at any time they feel the need to.
Avoiding Heat Illness
When you or your children spend too much time in the sun without hydrating you can become susceptible to heat illnesses such as heat cramps or heat exhaustion. Heat cramps occur with dehydration, vigorous exercising, and/or in extreme heat. When heat cramps occur on their own, they aren’t serious, but without proper care, they can become the first sign of a more serious issue, such as heat exhaustion.
This is a severe heat illness brought on by dehydration in a hot climate. If your child is experiencing heat exhaustion you should bring them into a cool environment and provide them with fluids, especially those that contain salt and sugars.
If heat exhaustion is left untreated, it can develop into heatstroke, which could be life-threatening. This is when your body cannot regulate its own temperature.
Take Indoor Breaks
If you are spending a lot of time outside, drink lots of water and start treatment at the first signs of heat illness, such as dizziness, weakness, nausea, or fainting. Heading inside to grab a glass of water, cool off, and give yourself a rest from the hot sun.
At Childventures, our team is trained in first aid and knows how to identify and treat heat illness, so we can be sure to keep your children safe in the summer sun!
Keep yourself and your children safe in the sun by following these sun smart safety tips to take advantage of the summer months!
