Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Health Tips for August 24

Health Tip: Protect Kids With Life Jackets

Anytime a child is swimming or boating on a lake, river or stream, he or she should don a life jacket.

The American Academy of Pediatrics offers these suggestions for proper use:

  • Make sure your child knows how to put on a life jacket.
  • Be sure your child is comfortable wearing and using the life jacket.
  • Ensure the life jacket fits correctly and snugly, and that all buckles are properly fastened.
  • Make sure all life jackets are approved by Underwriters Laboratories and the U.S. Coast Guard.
  • Never use blow-up water wings, a raft or inflatable toy in place of a life jacket.
  • Make sure all adults also wear life jackets to set a good example.

Health Tip: Skate Safely

Before your kids lace up their in-line skates, make sure they're prepared.

The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests how to reduce the risk of injury while in-line skating:

  • Make sure your child is always wearing protective equipment.
  • Skate carefully, and make sure to allow plenty of room for stopping.
  • Stick to the right side of the sidewalk or path, and pass on the left side.
  • Don't skate in areas where the ground is uneven or where there is traffic.
  • Always yield to pedestrians, and follow all traffic rules.

No comments: