July 13 2021 – Summertime in South Florida is in full swing, which means plenty of sunshine, longer daylight hours, camp, pool parties, backyard barbeques and outdoor activities. The hot summer months can also bring an increased risk of recreational accidents, heat overexposure, sunburns, bug bites and more. Broward Health’s family medicine specialists share tips on how we can protect ourselves during the summer season.
Swimming Risks
Whether swimming in a backyard pool, snorkeling in the ocean or waterskiing on a lake, water safety should be a priority. There are several precautions you can take to avoid water-related accidents:
•Never allow a child to be in or around the water without adult supervision. Fencing, netting or pool covers should be used to prevent children from entering the area.
•To avoid the risk of a spinal cord injury, be aware of the dangers of diving into shallow waters and ensure that there is proper signage to serve as a reminder.
•Make certain that the dock, pool and/or boat deck are clear of clutter to avert a slip and fall.
•The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends keeping rescue equipment nearby, such as a life preserver, lifejackets or a long pole with a shepherd’s hook at the end.
“Unfortunately, Broward County leads the state of Florida with the most unintentional drowning deaths,” said Venu Devabhaktuni, M.D., medical director of Salah Foundation Children’s Hospital’s Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. “In addition to all of the above safety tips, swimming lessons and refresher courses are important to have a healthy, fun summer.”
It is not always apparent when someone is struggling so it is critical to be vigilant and keep an eye on young swimmers at all times. Key signs to identify if someone might be drowning:
•A swimmer might push their arms downward attempting to elevate their bodies above the waterline.
•A swimmer’s hair is covering their face and they have glassy or unfocused eyes.
•A swimmer may be gasping or hyperventilating.
With dry drowning, water is not inhaled into the lungs. Instead, when a child breathes in water it causes vocal cords to spasm and close, shutting off airways and making it hard to breathe.
Secondary drowning happens if water gets into the lungs. There, it can irritate the lining of the lungs and fluid can build up, causing a condition called pulmonary edema.
Bicycle, skateboard and skating injuries
Young adults and children riding any type of bicycle, skateboard or scooter are extremely prone to sustaining scrapes, broken bones or other injuries. Properly fitted helmets and protective gear such as elbow and knee pads are a must. Parents might also consider enforcing time and location restrictions, such as avoiding riding at dusk or on busy streets and intersections.
“Wearing a helmet at all times while roller blading, skate boarding or riding your bicycle can prevent up to 80% of all head injuries,” Francis Amador, M.D., medical director of Salah Foundation Children’s Hospital’s Pediatric Emergency Department.
Managing Screen Time
Although outdoor activities are the ones we tend to think of as potentially dangerous, it is important not to forget the dangers of kids’ online activities.
“Excessive media use can lead to aggression, obesity and other behavioral issues,” said Elizabeth Steinberg, M.D., a pediatrician with the Broward Health Physician Group. “Make sure that kids of all ages know they cannot send or receive inappropriate photos and are aware of the serious consequences of online bullying.”
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To find a pediatrician for your child this summer, visit BrowardHealth.org/Find-Doctor.
