YOUR COMMUNITY

School is out and Summer Vacation is just Getting Started

Summer Vacation has just started for the majority of Valley kids. There are a few issues that arise from the triple digit temperatures and that is why, it is important to keep safety in mind. Many families will take trips to the local water parks, lakes, zoo, hiking, sporting events, movies, trips to the mall or just enjoy their backyard pools.

"Remember not to leave children or pets in vehicles"

There are two key things to do before you leave the house during the summer time. First, take plenty of water with you to avoid dehydration. Secondly, apply sunscreen to any part of the body that will be exposed to the sun (neck, face, arms and legs). The best thing to do is to avoid the outdoors during peak hours.

Children should always be aware of their surroundings, especially when hanging out in a public place. During summer vacation some kids stay home alone without adult supervision.

Home Alone

• Children should keep doors and windows locked at all times. They should only open the door if they are expecting someone that you as parents have approved to come over.
• Children should not answer the phone; let it roll over into voicemail.
• Set an emergency plan for them in case of a fire or any other type of incidents.
• Let one of your trusted neighbors know that your child may contact them if something arises.

Public Places

• Have them use the buddy system when going out.
• Make them aware of child predators.
• If someone they do not know offers them a ride, teach them to say "NO" and walk away.
• Let them know to stay in well-light areas when walking around.
• If they are being followed by someone they do not know, explain to them what they should do (find security or go into a store and explain the situation).

Many homes here in the Valley have pools and every summer you hear of kids drowning. It is important to practice pool safety.

• If you have young children, make sure the fence around the pool and spa is secure.
• Pool fences should have self-locking and self-latching apparatus.
• Pool fences should have no more than four inch wide openings between bars to reduce the risk of a child slipping through.
• Always keep rescue equipment around the pool (pole, rope and floating device).
• Supervise your child around water at all times. If you have to step away from the pool area, take your child with you.
  "Do not leave your children unattended around water"

For more information on water safety tips, please visit the American Red Cross website
http://www.redcross.org/services/hss/sumsafety/

Other concerns to think about

Summer time also means there are monsoons here in the valley and with it mosquito season. With the outbreak of the West Nile Virus in the last few years, kids as well as parents need to protect themselves by using some type of bug repellent. Things to do to keep bugs away:

• Avoid stagnant pools of water and flowering gardens.
• Use unscented products (soap, lotion and hair stray).
• Do not dress in bright colors as they attract critters.
• Invest in a good bug repellent with DEET
  (products with DEET should not be used on children under 2 months of age).

For more information on DEET, Click here.

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