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The sun's ultraviolet rays can cause serious diseases, such as skin cancer. The deadliest form of skin cancer, called melanoma, kills more than 7,000 people in the United States each year, and that number continues to rise. Melanoma often strikes people who suffer sunburns, particularly in childhood and adolescence. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the following tips to protect children from the sun:

  • Watch the clock - stay out of the sun during peak times - 10 am to 4 pm.
  • Wear sunscreen - with an SPF of at least 15 - and apply before exposure and reapply often.
  • Wear a hat - with a brim and keep it facing forward.
  • Keep your baby out of the sun. Babies have thinner skin and burn much more quickly.
  • Wear sunglasses that block UV rays - your eyes need protection too.


It's great to get outside and play or exercise in the summertime. High temperatures and high humidity can put children at risk for heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Children are more vulnerable because their bodies are less efficient at cooling. Here are some tips for avoiding heat-related illnesses:

  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
  • Make sure children take frequent breaks to cool down.
  • Exercise or play in the shade.
  • Coaches and parents should supervise children playing in the heat and be alert for signs of heat-related injuries.
  • If you are concerned about a possible heat-related illness, stop the activity, move to a cool area, drink plenty of fluids and seek medical attention.


Trampolines are dangerous. Approximately 100,000 injuries occur annually related to trampolines. Most injuries, including sprains, broken bones, concussions, or even death occur on home trampolines. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that trampolines should never be used in the home environment, in routine physical education classes, or in outdoor playgrounds. 


Nearly 300,000 children are treated annually in emergency rooms for bicycle-related injuries in the U.S. The good news is that there are several safety precautions you and your children can take to avoid these injuries.

  • Alway wear a helmet!! Severe injuries can occur just riding around your driveway.
  • Be sure your helmet fits properly. Make sure the V-shaped strap surrounds your ears and the helmet covers your forehead. The helmet should not move when you shake your head.
  • Obey the rules of the road.

For more information on bicycle safety check out kidshealth.org.

For more information on properly fitting a bike helmet check out NHTSA.gov.


Most insect bites and stings are not serious, but some people may have an allergic reaction and, sometimes, diseases like West Nile or Lyme disease can be spread by insect bites.

The best protection is to avoid bites or stings. Here are some insect safety tips.

  • Wear insect repellent containing DEET  or Picaridin.
  • Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts.
  • Light colored clothing make you less attractive to bees and makes ticks easier to spot.
  • Check frequently for ticks after being outdoors. Deer ticks are very small - the size of the head of a pin.
  • Stay away from beehives and wasp nests.

For more information on insect repellents check out cdc.gov.