Summer Safety: A Checklist For Parents

According to a study by the National Safe Kids Campaign, the four month period from May through August is the most dangerous time of year for children with nearly 3 million medical emergencies reported each year!

As the weather starts to turn warmer and the school year begins to wind down, it's a great time to review the following rules of safety with your youngsters.

1. Always CHECK FIRST with your parents or the person in charge before you go anywhere or do anything. Be sure to CHECK IN regularly with your parents or a trusted adult when you’re not with them.

2. Always TAKE A FRIEND when you play or go somewhere. It’s safer and more fun.

3. Don’t be tricked by people who offer you special treats or gifts. Never accept anything from anyone without your parents’ permission.

4. Stay SAFE when you’re home alone by keeping the door locked; not opening the door for or talking to anyone who stops by unless the person is a trusted family friend or relative, you feel comfortable being alone with that person, and the visit has been pre-approved by your parents. Never tell anyone who calls that you’re home by yourself. Have a neighbor or trusted adult you can call if you’re scared or there’s an emergency.

5. Never go into a public restroom by yourself.

6. Never go alone to malls, movies, or parks. Take a friend with you, and always CHECK FIRST with your parents to make sure it’s okay.

7. Don’t panic if you feel lost. Identify the safest place to go or person to ask for help in reuniting you with your family. Never search for them on your own, and never go off alone with anyone who is trying to reunite you with your family.

8. Be careful when you play. Stay away from pools, lakes, and other bodies of water unless you are with an adult. Don’t play near busy streets or deserted areas, and never take shortcuts unless you have your parents’ permission.

9. Don’t wear clothes or carry items with your name on the outside, and don’t be confused just because someone you don’t know calls out your name.

10. Don’t get into a car or go near a car with someone in it unless you are with your parents or a trusted adult. Never take a ride from someone without CHECKING FIRST with your parents.

11. Be careful playing or riding your bicycle as it gets dark. Sometimes it is difficult for people driving cars to see you. Wear reflectors and protective clothing if your parents say you can play outside after dark. ALWAYS wear a helmet!

12. Don’t be afraid to say NO and GET AWAY from any situation that makes you feel uncomfortable or confused. TRUST YOUR FEELINGS, and be sure to TELL a trusted adult if something happens that makes you feel this way.