Summer health
The guide to summer health is brought to you by Fraser Health.
Keeping kids healthy and safe this summer – tips for parents
As summer approaches, excitement levels rise in anticipation for outdoor adventures, sports and family vacations. Summer is a time for fun and relaxation, but it’s also a time to prioritize health and well-being. Below are some tips to help your kids stay active, healthy and safe during the summer months.
Sun protection
Help avoid sunburns by applying a sunscreen lotion with Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 30 or more to your children (and yourself) at least 20 minutes before heading outside. Seek shade and stay out of the hot sun between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Look for places with lots of shade, such as parks with big trees. Take an umbrella or tent to the beach and cover up with a wide brimmed hat, long sleeves and lose-fitting long pants.
Watch the media for heat waves and/or heat warning and tell your children to drink plenty of water and find cool air-conditioned spaces on those days. If there is no source of cool air, do not use fans as the main way of cooling off as they don’t cool down your children’s body temperature. Make sure you and your family know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, so you can monitor each other, both indoor and outdoors on hot days. Learn more at www.fraserhealth.ca/heatsafety
Breathe easier
Summer can bring with it extreme heat and smoke from wildfires. Know how to protect yourself and your loved ones from heat illnesses using our tips on keeping cool. Reducing your exposure to wildfire smoke is the best way to protect your health. Learn how to be ready for smoke and know about the air quality and health risks in your community to www.fraserhealth.ca/wildfiresmoke
Hydration
Encourage your children to drink water regularly, before they become thirsty. Instill the habit of always carrying a water bottle with them wherever they go.
Physical activity
Parents who join in on soccer games, splash in the pool or set out on hikes with their children on summer vacation – and all year long – not only get fit themselves but provide healthy role models for the next generation. Healthy, active outdoor play is one of the best ways to improve both adults’ and children’s overall physical and mental health.
Enjoy summer produce
Summer is here, which means fresh fruits and vegetables are in season. This makes it an ideal time to eat some delicious locally grown foods. Local farmers’ markets and u-pick farms are a fun way to enjoy farm-fresh fruits and veggies while getting outside and supporting local farmers.
Find more summer health tips in Fraser Health’s Healthy Summer Guide: https://www.fraserhealth.ca/health-topics-a-to-z/summer-health