Prevent summer injuries in kids with expert tips

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — As families head outdoors to enjoy the summer sun, health experts are urging parents to take simple precautions to prevent common injuries among children.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, nearly 200,000 children under the age of 15 were treated in emergency rooms for injuries related to summer activities in 2023 alone.

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The most common causes are lawn mowers, swimming, trampolines or bounce houses, and playgrounds.

“We can certainly prevent a serious injury — and in worst-case scenarios, even death — just by taking a little extra care,” Dr. Karla Robinson, a family physician with Urban Housecall, said.

Swimming remains one of the most popular ways to cool off, but it comes with risks, especially for young or inexperienced swimmers. Robinson recommends never swimming alone and using life jackets for anyone who isn’t a confident swimmer.

Here are some other tips to help you stay alert and safe:

• Never dive into shallow water. Ensure the depth is at least twice the height from which you’re diving to avoid serious injury.
• Avoid swimming during storms, rising waters, or strong currents.
• Avoid cocktails at the pool. Alcohol and swimming don’t mix — it impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time.

Lawn mowers are another seasonal hazard. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports around 143,000 people end up in the emergency room for lawn mower-related injuries.

“They really are very, very powerful, dangerous machines,” Robinson said. “They can not only lead to amputations, but the force with which they’re cutting grass can also kick out very harmful things that may be found in the lawn.”

Ways to stay safe around heavy machinery in the yard include:

• Always wear protective gear—gloves, goggles, long pants, and sturdy, closed-toe shoes.
• Never mow the lawn barefoot or in sandals or flip-flops.
• Keep children and pets away from the lawn mower, especially when in use.
• Children should never ride on a mower, even if it’s off.
• Remove sticks, rocks, and debris from the lawn beforehand.
• Never disable safety devices or guards.

As for trampolines and bounce houses, Robinson urges caution.

“If you do want to go out there on a trampoline, you do want to enjoy it,” she said. “Make sure that you’re only using one person at a time.”

High-energy activities can carry a high risk of fractures, sprains and other injuries. Adult supervision and using safety measures like protective rails can reduce harm.

Playgrounds also pose risks, especially those with hard surfaces. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends playgrounds with softer ground materials, such as rubber mulch or wood chips, which can help reduce the severity of injuries from falls.

If an injury does occur, Robinson advises seeking emergency care promptly.

“It can be the most efficient and effective way to determine the type of injury you may have,” she said.

As summer fun heats up, experts say staying safe just takes a little awareness — and could make all the difference in avoiding a trip to the ER.

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