4 ways to keep kids safe outdoors
(BPT) – Colder temperatures are on their way, but right now the weather is beautiful and that means there’s still plenty of time to get outdoors and enjoy some fresh air. As an adult, spending time outside allows you to pursue passions such as landscaping, lawn games, swimming in the pool or just enjoying the company of family and friends. There’s plenty to do and you know your children enjoy being outdoors just as much as you do.
However, when small children are outside, the potential for accidents increases. To keep them safe and make spending time outdoors an enjoyable experience for everyone, practice these four safety steps.
* It starts with you. Supervising your child while you’re outdoors together is the easiest way to ward off accidents, but then how do you get anything done? Start by asking your child to join you in completing the task and give them assignments they can manage such as carrying or sorting items. You can also provide toys or a new game they can play in your sight. Finally, join them in the fun. If you can’t make them part of your project, make yourself part of theirs. Play their game in the backyard, swim with them in the pool or go exploring for bugs together.
* Secure the area. If you want to block off a larger area like a pool or your back yard, a fence can be the answer and can make for one, final DIY project this year. Before you start however, it’s important to contact your city or homeowner’s association to be sure fences are allowed and to learn what type of fence you can install. Then, you need to decide if you will hire someone to install the fence or do it yourself. If you choose to do it yourself, be sure to contact your power provider so they can mark the proper power lines before you dig.
* Use the right tools. A fence can keep your child safe, but eventually they’ll learn to open the gate. To protect kids during these inquisitive years, D&D Technologies recently launched Magna Latch Alert, the world’s first integrated alarm with new audible and visual features. Magna Latch Alert easily attaches to any gate and emits a single alert beep when the gate is opened. It will even notify you if the gate has not been securely and fully latched. Magna Latch Alert is made from high performance polymers so it won’t rust in rain or snow, making it the perfect choice for any outdoor space where safety is a must.
* Educate yourself. Despite your best efforts, accidents can happen and if one does, it’s essential you’re prepared. Make sure you’re trained in CPR and mouth-to-mouth and you’re aware of your child’s allergies. Finally, remembering 9-1-1 is easy but you should also have the number for poison control plugged into your phone, just in case.
No matter what outdoor activity you have planned, it will be more fun if you know everyone around you is safe. Institute the four steps above and you’ll be able to enjoy the rest of this year’s beautiful outdoor days without a concern.