Families are heading outside to soak up the sun and splash into water fun.
Before you jump in, Charlotte Sibley, MD, a pediatrician who practices at Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health Pediatrics at Livingston, has a few essential reminders that could save a life. Dr. Sibley shared all things summer safety on a recent episode of Medical Monday with Brian Haldane.
Supervision First, Always
“The number one thing that parents need to be doing more consistently is supervision,” Dr. Sibley says. “That means assigning a water watcher — an adult who is not drinking, not on their phone and whose only job is watching the water.”
Drowning is quick and silent, not the dramatic, splashy scene we see in movies. “Even with a whole backyard full of people, it can very easily be missed,” she says.
Life Jackets Are for More Than Boats
If you’re planning to be out on lakes, rivers or other open water, Dr. Sibley strongly recommends life jackets, even for good swimmers.
“Kids get tired easily. A life vest keeps them afloat and protects them from undercurrents that could pull them under,” she explains.
Look for U.S. Coast Guard–approved jackets that fit your child’s weight and size. Safety gear should never be an afterthought.
Pool Prep at Home
Home pools can be a major hazard, especially for toddlers. Dr. Sibley stresses the importance of barriers, even when no one is swimming.
“A lot of drowning events in toddlers happen when we’re not actively swimming,” she says.
Her top home pool safety tips:
- Install a four-sided fence at least four feet tall with a self-latching gate
- Add door alarms or chimes to alert you if a child slips out of the house toward the pool
- Use Coast Guard–approved puddle jumpers if your child is using floatation devices— and stay within arm’s reach at all times
“And don’t forget, floaties can give kids a false sense of security,” she says. “They might think they can swim without them.”
Hot Weather and Sun Safety
In Louisiana, the heat is no joke. Dr. Sibley reminds parents to encourage kids to hydrate regularly, especially during summer sports and outdoor camps.
“They should be drinking before they even feel thirsty,” she says. “And if possible, avoid being outside during the hottest parts of the day.”
When it comes to sunscreen, Dr. Sibley’s advice is simple. “The best sunscreen is the one you’ll use. Go for SPF 30 or higher, and don’t forget to reapply every 90 minutes, even if you’re not swimming.”
Summer Safety Starts with You
Whether you’re heading to the backyard pool, a beach vacation or summer sports practice, a few precautions can go a long way. Keep an eye on the water, suit up in safety gear and stay sun-smart all season long.
