Summer Safety for Preschool Children

Summertime is full of fun and sun, but it is important to understand the risks of excessive sun and heat exposure and know how to avoid them. 

Sun Safety

The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) rays that pass through Earth’s atmosphere and get absorbed by our skin. It is important to find shade, wear sunscreen, or wear protective clothing during the hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. when the UV rays are the strongest.

• Before going outside, ensure that there is adequate shade in the play area.
• Encourage children to wear protective clothing like long-sleeved, light-colored, breathable clothing, hats, and sunglasses. Clothing with Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of 30 or higher can offer additional protection. 
• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors and reapply every 2 hours, especially after swimming, sweating, or drying off with a towel.
• Use sunscreen even when it is cloudy outside.

Heat Safety

Las Vegas summers can be extremely hot and unsafe for playing outside. It is important to remember to stay hydrated, out of the sun, and to move indoors to a cool area when it is too hot outside.

• Make sure children drink plenty of non-sugar-sweetened beverages like water to stay hydrated.
• If enjoying time outside, make sure to stay in the shade as much as possible or to enjoy activities during the coolest parts of the day or evening.
• If it is too hot outside, inspire screen-free creativity inside the home, like creating indoor obstacle courses or arts and crafts projects to build fine and gross motor skills.
• Never leave children in a parked car, even if the windows are open.
• Seek medical care immediately if the child shows symptoms of heat-related illness.