Summer is in full effect. Summer heat, summer school, summer fun, summer vacations and summer activities are in full swing; hiking, traveling, exploring, picnics, beach, swimming, and more. Whether you are a parent who might be traveling with your child, or a teacher engaging in summer school activities, safety should always be a priority. I read a post and wanted to share. After all, when dealing with children, disability or not, you should always wish for the best, but plan for the worse!
Here’s how to create your own summer survival kit.
* Cell phone
* Water
* Medications for chronic conditions
* Bandages
* Antibiotic cream for cuts and scrapes
* Crushable icepack for bruises
* Benadryl
* An EpiPen for a person with known allergies
* Sun protection
* Hats and sunglasses
* Insect repellent
* Tweezers
* Index card with important information (allergies, medications, etc.)
Here are some additional summer safety tips for parents and teachers alike.
* Review all side effects of medications regarding heat or pool water exposure.
* Make sure all equipment (braces, wheelchairs, pool devices, etc.) are in mint condition.
* Practice all summer activity prep steps with your child, but always be sure that the child is supervised near water and in the outdoors.
* Have all caregivers instructed on child’s meds and equipment use, allergy conditions and other emergency medical protocol.
* Post separate listing of medical personnel and contact info.
* Be sensitive to child’s travel time limits; prepare in advance for proper accomodations; reinforce daily how to respond to strangers while traveling.
* Remember to pack items of “security” when traveling; kids may need a familiar toy, stuffed animal or other favorite when away from home!
* Ask therapists about the most up-to-date physical adaptive devices for water, camping, and other summer sports activities. (Keep separate, quick reference listing of websites for specific items)
* Always have Summer Survival Kit packed and with you when traveling.
* For mosquitoes, ticks, and other unwanted pests, use only products that are free from conventional pesticides…go green.
* Know your special needs child’s physical limitations and be especially vigilant when it comes to heat exposure.
* And finally, don’t forget medical bracelet, especially when traveling.
Summer is a time for having fun. Just make sure you are and stay ready!