Summer is one of the best times of the year for kids and adults alike. With plenty of sunny, warm days, getting outside for active fun is easy. Afternoons spent swimming, hiking, playing at the park or hitting the court become a regular occurrence—which is good for the whole family’s health and state of mind.
While staying active is an excellent way to keep everyone happy, summer fun also comes with some risk. Dehydration and heat stroke can come on unexpectedly and pose a threat to the wellbeing of those both young and old. The following is first aid 101 for common summer ailments that can occur while out and about. Read up, hit the store and stock up on your Band-Aids and sunscreen—then get out and have some fun.
Hours of play time out in the elements can keep kids distracted, and makes it easy to forget to drink water throughout the day.
Signs of dehydration include: headaches, dizziness, dry lips and eyes, and small amounts of or darkened urine.
What to do: If you think your child is dehydrated get them out of the sun immediately and give them plenty of water to drink. Include fluids that replace salt and minerals. Many sports drinks are made for rehydration. If muscle cramps occur, encourage rest and use massage to help the tension relax. If your child continues to get worse or their condition doesn’t improve, take them to the doctor. Learn about more signs, symptoms and treatments of dehydration here.
Long hours spent playing in high temps can result in a condition called heat stroke, which is usually accompanied by dehydration.
Signs of heat stroke include: confusion, agitation, disorientation, and the absence of sweating. Heat stroke is dangerous and can lead to coma. It should be treated immediately and a doctor should be called if there is no improvement.
What to do: If you suspect heat stroke, get your child out of the sun and heat immediately. Apply cool water to the skin and place ice packs under the armpits and groin. Follow first aid instructions for dehydration and monitor the body temperature until it returns to 102 or 101 F. If the temperature doesn’t drop or your child continues to show symptoms, call your family doctor immediately.
Sunburns are a common occurrence during the summer season. They can be avoided best by wearing sun protective clothing, sunblock, and sunscreen. Even when you take all of these preventative measures, sunburns sometimes occur. When they do, be prepared to help your child find fast relief.
Signs of sunburn: You or your child may have sunburn if skin appears pink or red and warm to the touch. Sunburns are painful and make wearing clothing uncomfortable.
What to do: If you think you have a sunburn begin treating it right away. Take regular cool baths to relieve the pain. Apply a moisturizer with Aloe Vera to the affected area. It will sooth the burn and help with healing. Aspirin or Ibuprophen can be used to relieve pain and discomfort. If there are blisters, do not pop them and let them heal. Drink water and make sure to stay hydrated.
Your summer first aid kit should have the following supplies:
Keep a first aid kit with you at all time. Have one at home and in the car. Include a card with all of the emergency numbers you want your kids to have in case you need them to make an important call for you.