With the hot weather and school out for the summer, there are more chances for kids to enjoy the outdoors. Take steps to keep them safe and healthy outdoors!

Water Safety

Swimming and other water activities are a great way to get the physical activity needed for a healthy life. One free option for outdoor pools is the Lasker Pool at 110th Street and Lenox Avenue in Central Park. The pool reopens on June 29. Check out their website for more details and read our tips below for water safety.

• Parents and caregivers play a key role in keeping children from drowning. When kids are in or near water, closely supervise them at all times.
• Help prevent disease from germs and chemicals in the water we swim in. Keep the pee, poop, sweat, and dirt out of the water. Take kids on bathroom breaks and check diapers every hour. Change diapers in a bathroom or diaper-changing area--not poolside--to keep germs away from the pool.
• Stay safe on a boat by wearing a life jacket. Properly fitted life jackets can keep both children and adults from drowning and should be worn at all times on the boat.

Sun Smarts

A few serious sunburns can increase your child's chances of having skin cancer later in life. Adults and children need protection from ultraviolet (UV) rays whenever they're outdoors. Read more about sun protection for African Americans in our previous Healthy Tip of the Week or see below for more tips.

• Seek shade when UV rays are strongest and most harmful during midday. It's best to be indoors or in the shade at that time.
• When possible, cover up wtih long-sleeved shirts, long pants, or skirts to be protected from UV rays.
• Wear a hat that shades the face, scalp, ears, and neck. If your child chooses a baseball cap, be sure to protect their neck and ears with sunscreen.
• Wear sunglasses. Your child's eyes can be harmed by UV rays so make sure to protect them with sunglasses.
• Use sunscreen with at least SPF (sun protection factor) 15 every time your child goes outside. For the best protection, apply it 30 minutes before going outdoors. Don't forget to put it on your child's ears, nose, lips, and the tops of their feet.