Summer is finally here! School’s out and it’s the time when children want to head outdoors: the beach, pool, park and backyard are all destinations that figure in the list. It’s also a time when parents and caregivers have to be exceptionally careful when it comes to monitoring their children’s health and well-being. The UAE’s harsh summers can cause problems ranging from dehydration and sunburn to food poisoning – on account of spoilage — and insect bites.

However, some simple guidelines can keep these problems at bay and ensure that your children enjoy all the fun associated with summer, says Dr Harish Gupta, Specialist – Pediatrics, Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi. He offers the following tips to keep your children safe and healthy this season.

Sun protection
Too much sun exposure can cause sunburn because children have sensitive skin. Use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor specially formulated for children, applying it 20 minutes before sun exposure. Apply it generously to all the exposed parts of the body, including the face.The other part of reducing exposure to the sun includes making children wear a wide brimmed hat, long-sleeved t-shirt and sunglasses, and keeping them indoors at times of high sun exposure, between 10 AM and 4 PM.

Chlorine in public pools can also irritate a child’s sensitive skin and eyes so ensure that you reapply sunscreen regularly and keep their eyes and scalp protected with well-fitting goggles and swimming cap.

Good hydration
Ensure that children stay well hydrated during summer. Keep water or juices on hand to maintain hydration especially since kids love running around and are very active.  Mild symptoms of heat-induced dehydration could include thirst and lethargy so ensure that children are monitored throughout the time they are outdoors. Symptoms such as dizziness, vomiting or breathlessness could indicate heatstroke, so head to the doctor or emergency room in such a scenario. Kids are also at risk for dehydration if left in a closed car even if it’s only for a few minutes. So never leave a child unattended in a car.

Food protection
Bacteria in food multiply faster in hot, humid weather. Preparing and eating food outdoors – in the garden, when camping or at picnics and barbecues – can also be a problem, where refrigeration and places to wash hands are not easily available.

Food poisoning can cause vomiting and diarrhoea and may be quite serious for children. You can prevent food poisoning by eating fresh food that’s been stored and cooked correctly. Don’t feed children food that’s been left out of the fridge for more than four hours – especially poultry, meat, seafood, cooked rice and cooked pasta. Also, ensure that food is cooled at the right temperature whilst storing it in the fridge.

If outdoors, carry hand sanitizers and tissues to clean your children’s hands before they handle food, especially if they have been playing in the park or in the sand.

Safety first
Bees, wasps, ants and other insects are commonly found in the park or outdoors. Ensure that children wear clothing that covers their arms and legs to protect them if they are playing outdoors. Use child-friendly insect repellants if going camping. If outdoors, keep food covered to avoid attracting ants and other pests. Keep a first-aid kit and anti-histamines handy especially if your children are allergic to bee stings or insect bites.

These are just some of the ways to keep your kids safe during the season. Other precautions should include safety measures especially when children are learning to cycle, skate, swim or play sport that could cause injuries.