With summer in full swing, the Alabama Cooperative Extension System reminds parents and guardians of the risks tied to sun exposure and water activities.
Silvia Vilches, a family and child development specialist with Alabama Extension at Auburn University, said being aware of these risks lets families enjoy the season safely.
“Being aware of risks of outdoor activities means you can enjoy the water and sunshine, knowing you are preventing problems now and into the future,” Vilches said.
Water safety is especially important. Drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4 and the second-leading cause for ages 5 to 14, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, with the rate in July four times the winter rate.
Vilches urged parents to stay engaged while supervising children at pools or beaches rather than relying on a phone, and to make sure children can always be seen and heard.
Swimming lessons are critical, particularly for families with little water experience, and the U.S. National Water Safety Plan recommends properly fitted life vests on any boat under 26 feet. Vilches also recommended watching local swimmers: if they’re avoiding an area, it’s best to avoid it too.
Protecting children from ultraviolet radiation matters most between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the UV index runs highest. Vilches suggested a simple shadow check: if your shadow is shorter than you are, it’s time to find shade.
Sunburns in childhood can lead to long-term skin damage and skin cancer, and Vilches recommended three main defenses: shade, protective clothing, and sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, reapplied every two hours and especially after time in the water.
Mineral-based sunscreens with titanium dioxide or zinc oxide are a good option for young children, while infants under six months should skip sunscreen entirely in favor of protective clothing and shade. Children with darker skin tones can still sunburn, so all kids benefit from the same precautions.
Learn more about raising healthy families by visiting aces.edu.
