The occasional scraped knee is a rite of passage for many kids. But how can you keep your kids safe from more serious accidents or recognize the signs of an allergic reaction? Here are five tips that can reduce childhood accidents.
How to keep kids safe on their bikes
Bicycling is a great way for children and their parents to get exercise, but it’s important to follow a few safety rules. Both children and adults should wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet and ride a bike that is the right size, has functioning brakes, and fully inflated tires, according to National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration. The NHTSA also recommends that children younger than 10 years old ride on the side walk. Parents riding with their children in the street should follow the rules of the road and use bright colored clothing or gear to make yourself more visible to drivers.
What to know about bee stings in children
Ouch. Bee stings are a painful. But most are not serious. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, you should scrape the stinger out with a credit card and then apply an ice pack to reduce swelling. If you child develops severe swelling or has difficulty breathing call 911. He or she may be having a serious reaction.
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How to stay one step ahead when baby is on the move
Baby proofing a home, is a little bit like a nuclear arms race. Each time your baby develops a new skill you will find you self having to work a little harder to keep him or her safe. So is it important to get a head start by taking care of obvious dangers in advance. Use child safety plugs to cover outlets. Move household cleaners and other toxic substances out of reach or in locked cabinets. Inventory your medications. Look for everything including the stragglers in your purse or junk drawers. Throw away expired medications or ones you no longer need. Keep the remaining medications out of reach or in a locked cabinet. Secure heavy furniture, and move any objects that might easily fall on a curious child.
What to know about keeping kids safe during hot Lowcountry summers
Warm Lowcountry days are a perfect excuse for being outside with the family. Not only does being in the sun feel great, but it helps young bodies to produce vitamin D, which is critical for strong bones and a healthy immune system. But too much of a good thing could lead to a burn or long term sun damage, so be sure to pack a child safe sunscreen and protective clothing such as a sun hat. Children are more susceptible to dehydration and heat stroke than adults. It’s important for parents to recognize signs of dehydration in children, which may include dry mouth, a lack of tears when crying, no urination for more than 3 hours, a high fever, and a sunken belly, eyes or cheeks, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. For mild dehydration drinking water or a sports drink may be enough, but in more serious cases individuals should contact a doctor, according to the center. Better yet try to prevent dehydration by making sure the child is drinking plenty of water, and keeping a child out of extreme heat.
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How parents can always be prepared if their child is injured
Putting together a first aid kit for your home and car is a smart way to prepare for when things go wrong. Keep emergency numbers such as emergency services, your pediatrician, and a poison hotline handy in your home and cellular phone. Have a first aid manual for children at home to refer to when you encounter a situation you are unsure of. Buy or put together a first aid kit. The American Red Cross recommends including a variety of bandages, antibiotic ointment and antiseptic wipes, aspirin, a blanket, a cold compress, hydrocortisone ointment, scissors, cloth tape, gauze, a thermometer, and tweezers. For a more detailed list, click here.
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