While kids look forward to beach trips, playground fun, and time outside, Dr. Arun Chopra, a pediatric expert, advises parents to stay alert to common risks associated with warmer weather.
Summer safety should be a top priority for every family enjoying the season’s sunshine and freedom.
From water safety to heat precautions and bug protection, he shares practical ways to help children stay safe and healthy—all while enjoying the joy of summer.
Start with the right gear: Helmets save lives
When it comes to wheels—whether bikes, scooters, or ATVs—the pediatric expert doesn’t mince words.
“One thing I would never let my kids do is get on a bike, scooter, skateboard, ATV or anything else that has wheels without a helmet,” he writes in the NY Post.
He explains that head trauma is one of the most serious but preventable injuries kids face while playing.
Helmets should be worn every time, no exceptions. ATVs in particular pose a greater risk due to their size and speed.
These vehicles can flip, causing crushing injuries if a child is thrown or pinned.
Dr. Chopra urges families to check that each machine is age-appropriate, equipped with seatbelts, and only used by someone who knows how to operate it safely. Alcohol should never be involved in the use of these vehicles.
Water safety means never letting your guard down
One of the most serious dangers of summer is drowning, and it can happen in just moments.
“It’s very easy for kids to drown, even in just a few inches of water,” Dr. Chopra warns.
He stresses the importance of active adult supervision when children are near pools, lakes, or the beach.
The supervising adult should be able to swim and stay close enough to help immediately if needed.
He also reminds parents not to let kids dive into water less than four feet deep, as shallow water increases the risk of head injuries.
These water safety tips apply even to bathtubs and plastic kiddie pools—no water source is too small to be cautious around.
Summer safety tip: Don’t underestimate the heat
Dehydration and heat exhaustion are two of the most common health issues in children during summer.
Signs of dehydration include dark urine and fewer trips to the bathroom.
To prevent this, the pediatric expert recommends offering kids water regularly and encouraging breaks in the shade.
“Dehydration is when you don’t have enough water in your body. When you couple dehydration with excessive heat, that’s what we call heat exhaustion,” he explains.
Water, clear fluids, and electrolyte drinks are best for older kids who are active outdoors.
He also advises avoiding sugary or caffeinated drinks, which can increase fluid loss.
Kids should wear lightweight, breathable clothing and wide-brimmed hats.
Don’t forget sunscreen—apply it to all exposed skin and reapply every two hours or after swimming.
Setting up a shady area with an umbrella or tent gives kids a safe place to cool off.
Protect kids from insect bites and summer stings
Mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects are more active during warm months, and their bites can be more than just itchy.
Tick bites may carry Lyme disease in some regions, so regular tick checks are essential after playing outdoors.
Dr. Chopra recommends spraying insect repellent on clothing rather than directly on skin to boost bug protection.
This helps create a barrier and keeps the product effective longer.
Other bites—while not dangerous—can become infected if scratched. Applying antibiotic ointment can help prevent infection.
These simple actions help protect kids from insect bites before they cause problems.
Never leave kids in cars—even for a minute
Another crucial piece of advice involves overheated vehicles, one of summer’s most tragic yet avoidable dangers.
“Never, ever, ever leave pets or kids unattended in a closed vehicle,” Dr. Chopra says.
A parked car can reach over 100 degrees in minutes, even on a mildly warm day.
Children can suffer heat stroke or worse, even if the windows are cracked.
Always check the back seat before locking the door, and use reminders if necessary.
He also cautions against letting kids play on hot playground equipment. Metal slides and jungle gym bars can cause burns.
Ground surfaces like black rubber or asphalt can also become dangerously hot.
A quick touch test before playtime can prevent injuries.
Summer safety makes room for joy, not limits
While these guidelines may seem strict, Dr. Chopra, the pediatric expert, emphasizes that none are meant to take the fun out of summer.
In fact, they help ensure families enjoy the season with peace of mind.
“Let your kids go outside and experience the world,” he says. With thoughtful planning and extra care, every child can have a safe, healthy, and happy summer break.
Watch the video below for some more summer safety tips from Frontier Pediatrics:
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