6 Summer Safety Tips for Children

As the days get longer and the sun shines brighter, families across the UK are gearing up for a summer filled with adventures and plenty of outdoor play – the perfect way for children to explore, learn, and stay active.

To help you make the most of the summer months, we’ve put together some essential summer safety tips covering everything from sun protection to staying safe while out and about.

 

1. Safety Starts at Home

While there is an increase in outdoor injuries during the summer months, it’s important to be aware that the home consistently remains the most common place for childhood accidents, with more happening at home than outside, irrespective of the time of year, especially for younger children. Each year, over two million under-15s attend A&E due to accidents in the home, with under-fives most at risk. Warm weather leads to open windows, barbecues ,and more activity around the home, all of which carry potential risks, so be sure to;

• Install window restrictors to prevent falls from open windows, particularly upstairs.
• Keep barbecues and fire pits supervised and fenced off, and teach children about hot surfaces.
• Secure furniture so that children cannot climb to access open windows or balconies.
• Store garden tools and chemicals safely out of reach.

 

2. Sun Protection: Shielding Their Skin

Sunburn isn’t just a short-term discomfort, it increases the risk of skin damage and long-term health concerns like skin cancer. Children’s skin is more sensitive than adults’, and protecting it is vital.

Use a high-factor sunscreen: Choose a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 and apply it 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours, and after swimming or excessive sweating.

Dress smart: Light, long-sleeved clothing and wide-brimmed hats provide physical barriers against UV rays.

Seek shade: The sun is at its strongest between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. When possible, plan indoor or shaded activities during these hours.

Don’t forget the eyes: Children’s eyes are vulnerable to UV damage, so provide sunglasses with proper UV protection.

 

 

3. Hydration: Keep Fluids Flowing

Children are less likely to recognise early signs of dehydration, and when having fun, it’s easy to forget to take regular water breaks.

Encourage regular sips of water throughout the day, even if they don’t feel thirsty.

Pack a reusable water bottle wherever you go.

Opt for water-rich snacks like watermelon, cucumber or oranges to help maintain fluid levels.

 

 

4. Water Safety: Vigilance Is Vital

Summer often means trips to beaches, pools, lakes and rivers, but water can be deceptively dangerous. In the UK, drownings increase during the warmer months, particularly in open water.

Supervise at all times: Children should always be within arm’s reach, whether in a paddling pool or at the beach.

Teach water awareness: Help children understand the dangers of swimming in unsupervised areas like rivers or reservoirs. If swimming in the sea, teach children to recognise sea safety flags and always choose beaches with lifeguards when possible.

Equip them properly: Use arm bands or life jackets when appropriate, but remember these are not a substitute for supervision.

Check water temperature and depth before letting your child enter, especially in open water where conditions can be unpredictable.

 

 

5. Outdoor Play Equipment: Exploring with Confidence

From playing at the park to riding bikes and scooters, help children enjoy themselves safely and confidently by;

Inspecting play areas for hazards such as broken glass, loose equipment or hidden holes.

Making sure they wear helmets and pads when cycling, scootering or skateboarding.

Choosing age-appropriate equipment: Many injuries happen when children use toys or apparatus not suited to their size or developmental level.

 

 

6. Stay Safe on the Roads and Pavements

 

Longer daylight hours mean more time to play, but also more exposure to traffic. It’s especially important to educate older children on road safety as they gain more independence and venture outdoors on their own.

Teach road awareness: Talk to children about crossing roads safely, looking both ways and understanding traffic signals.

High-visibility clothing or reflective accessories make children more noticeable, especially as it gets dark.

Supervise younger children closely: keep them within arm’s reach near roads or driveways.

 

 

Enjoy the Summer Safely

Play is at the heart of every child’s development, and this time of year provides a golden opportunity for adventure, exploration, and growth.
While risks exist both indoors and out, it’s important to remember that outdoor play offers vital physical, emotional, and social benefits. By taking a few simple steps, you can help your child enjoy the freedom and fun of summer safely and confidently.
Here’s to a happy and safe summer of play!