Summertime Safety - Start Planning Now

Summer is just around the corner.  School will be out, and young people will be enjoying  variety of summer activities.  But because so much is going on, summer is also a time when youth are vulnerable to a variety of dangers.

Use the next few weeks to help prepare you and your child for the summer.  Here are some helpful tips to ensure your child has a safe, as well as a fun summer:

• Make sure your child has important contact numbers:  With cell phones the ability of children to contact parents or other family members is much easier.  But make sure your child has your contact information, as well as that of other family members, friends, and public safety offices.
• Keep reasonable hours:  It's not uncommon for kids to get to stay up later during the summer than during school.  But this should not be a time for them to have no restrictions.  Keeping regular hours will not only help them stay well-rested, it will also help keep them out of trouble.
• Limit time on the computer, play-station, and television:  With all the home entertainment options, it's easy for youth to become physically inactive during the summer (one reason why youth obesity is at record levels).  Make sure your child gets regular exercise and doesn't let the summer become a time of deteriorating health.
• Teach your child to be aware of their surroundings:  It's unfortunately true that summer brings an increase in crime.  Help your child stay safe by teaching them how to be aware of their surroundings and how to notice if something is unusual.
• Know where your child is:  They don't always appreciate it, but one of the most important things you can do to keep your child safe is to know where they are. 

The summer can and should be a time of fun.  Taking these simple steps will help make sure it is also safe.