As parents, we always want what’s best for our children; however, we don’t always know what that best looks like as it relates to making sure your children are safe outdoors. Here are just a few ways you can keep your child safe when playing outdoors:
Check For Hazards
If your child is going outside for play time specifically make sure you always check for hazards.[1] This could mean having to go outside and check playlets that your children are playing on. Also, make sure you are checking the playground area for glass and other materials that may endanger your little one. Most of all, remain vigilant. Hazards can show up in an outside play area relatively quick.
Proper Footwear
Proper footwear is a vital part of making sure your children are safe when playing outdoors.[2] This could mean that when you are out on hiking trails you may want to make sure you are wearing shoes that are fit for trails. If it’s winter time, you will want to make sure you are wearing winter boots that protect you from slipping and falling, and if it’s summer time you definitely want to avoid open toe flip flops or sandals. While these summer time gear may have your child looking stylish on the playground, their attire could be a hazard, especially when other children are running around. Additionally, wearing open toe shoes outside could put your toes and feet in danger should an object fall directly on your foot.
Wearing Helmets
Much like other forms of physical activity, it’s important that you wear the appropriate gear when engaging in activities. During many warmer months, many children and parents enjoy being able to ride their motorcycles around their neighborhoods or perhaps even down the road. When you have your children riding on your motorcycle with you, it’s important that you both wear not only your helmet, but also appropriate padding. If you’re not sure which helmet will work best for you or your little one, there are several resources that are available that help you analyze and pick from the top motorcycle helmets available on the market in order to insure your safety.
Seasonal Safety
Depending on what time of the year it is, it could be important to start practicing seasonal safety. Seasonal safety is important to your child’s overall safety, particularly during winter and summer months.[3] During the winter months, make sure your child is wearing several layers in addition to wearing a coat, gloves and scarves. This not only keeps your child warm, but protects them from the dangers often associated with hypothermia. During warmer months, especially during scorching hot summers, make sure you limit or possibly eliminate your child’s time outside. Spending prolong amounts of time in the heat could lead to heat stroke, dehydration or even severe breathing problems.
Being Over Prepared
It’s better to be over prepared than under prepared, especially when attempting to protect your children. While there is no way you can possibly stop all bad things from happening, you can make sure you are adequately prepared whenever certain things do. Being over prepared could be the one difference that sets you apart not only from life or death but from a medical emergency you didn’t sign up for. How are you working to keep your children safe? Leave your comments below.
