Summer Safety – Water safety
6/23/2020
Summer is here and this summer is going to be different than any that we have experienced due to COVID-19. Many parks and recreational facilities are still closed which makes it challenging when trying to keep young children entertained. As we approach each phase of reopening it is important to keep in mind safety for ourselves and our children.
Water-related activities are a popular way to get physical activity during a hot summer day. There are some local pool facilities that are closed but public lake parks and beaches are open. Drownings are one of the leading causes of injury and death in children ages 1-4. Recreational water illnesses are also quite common in children and teens. Below are some tips to reduce the risk of drowning in young children:
- Swimming lessons for children of all ages
- Always supervise children when in or around water
- Learn CPR as this could save a life
- Age and weight appropriate life-jackets when indicated
Recreational water illnesses include diarrhea illness, ear infections, rashes, respiratory infection, and chemical irritation of eyes and lungs. We do not believe that COVID-19 can be spread through water but if social distancing practices are not practiced, then the risk of exposure remains. Below are some ways to reduce the risk of recreational water illness:
- Shower before you get in the water and after you are done swimming for the day
- Don’t pee or poop in the water.
- Don’t swallow the water.
- Don’t swim if you are ill with fever, diarrhea or other illness
Every hour—everyone out!
- Take kids on bathroom breaks.
- Check diapers, and change them in a bathroom or diaper-changing area, not poolside, to keep germs away from the pool.
- Reapply sunscreen.
- Drink plenty of fluids, primarily water
This is part one of a four part series on summer safety for children.
Courtney Ramsey*, MSN, FNP-BC
1501 Union Ave. Suite A&B
Moberly, MO
660-263-9095
*Accepting new and same day patients
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