First Aid Tips for Summer Vacations

Summer is the traditional time to pack up the kids and head off in search of adventure (or relaxation).

Taking time to prepare for your children’s safety and well-being beforehand can make the trip less stressful for the whole family.

Consider the following when packing for a vacation.

Bring safe water, snacks, child-appropriate hand wipes (or alcohol-based water-free hand sanitizer), and water-proof ground sheets (tarps).

A portable first aid kit should include acetaminophen and/or ibuprofen, a thermometer, antibiotic ointment, antiseptic, sterile adhesive bandages of various sizes, gauze pads and bandage tape, scissors, tweezers, petroleum jelly and diphenhydramine.

It is important to have your children’s medical information written down, especially if they have chronic diseases, regular medications or allergies.

Also include the date of their last tetanus shots.

Carsickness is a form of motion sickness. Its symptoms are mainly dizziness and nausea.

Eating something before a trip may help. If your child’s car sickness occurs during the trip, trying giving him crackers to help alleviate the symptoms.

Focusing on a fixed object in the distance helps rather than watching things whizz outside the car windows.

Frequent stops for walking around in the fresh air can also be a helpful maneuver.

Sunburn is a major risk while on vacation. Babies should be covered up in lightweight clothing and wear brimmed hats.

Sunscreen of at least SPF 15 should be used on exposed skin, but babies should hang out in the shade as much as possible.

Older kids need to sunscreen up as directed and wear brimmed hats with sunglasses.

In hot and humid weather, strenuous activity should be reduced. As children adjust to the climate, activity can be increased.

One layer of light-colored clothes should be worn. Frequent breaks for water or sports drinks can help stave off dehydration.

The general rule of thumb: if you are thirsty, drink!

Bug bites can be lessened by using an insect repellent (Containing 10-30% DEET) for children two months or older.

To keep the bugs away, avoid scented soaps or perfumes as well as bright colors of clothing or those with floral prints.

Never swim alone. Children on boats or around bodies of water should wear life jackets that fit.

Vacations can be fun. Be prepared, though, and be safe!