Summer is here! Which means we could all use a few reminders about how to stay safe during our sunny, super fun activities.

Fun in the Sun

We love the sun, but it doesn’t always love us back. 

• Make sure to regularly have girls apply sunscreen. Set a timer if you need to make sure you don’t forget, especially if you will be in the water. 
• Include sun protection in the packing list, things like hats and bandanas, shirts with sleeves that cover the shoulders, and sunscreen.
• Be conscious of how much time girls have been in the sun. Opt for a game in the shade instead of one in the sun.
• If you have younger girls, ask parents to have girls practice applying sunscreen to be sure they can get it everywhere they need.

Pesky Insects

Girl Scouts love the outdoors, but don’t love donating blood one mosquito at a time. The same goes for other bugs that can’t keep their antennae to themselves.

• Add bug spray to the packing list and bring extra. Apply regularly.
• Remind girls to do tick checks before bed, or when changing for swim time. You can remind families to do the same when girls get home. Girls should check where clothing meets the skin, like the waistband and sock-line, their hairline, and places skin overlaps or touches itself, like armpits.
• Be prepared to remove, and save, a tick that bites. The CDC has information about tick removal for you to review. Saving the tick after removal can help if the girl develops symptoms of a transmittable disease. One of the easiest ways to do this is to stick it in some clear tape and give it to the family.

Safe Swimming

A trip to a pool, waterpark, or local beach can be so much fun. In addition to sun protection, here are a few more tips to think about.

• Only swim at locations with a lifeguard. Maybe that means providing your own or maybe the location has someone on duty.
• If you are using a local beach, do not use if the beach is closed. Flooding, algae blooms, or other water management issues sometimes close waterways. Follow those recommendations.
• Know your girls swimming abilities and set appropriate limits. Talk to families or ask girls to demonstrate their skills. Set limits based on swimming ability.
• Review rules like no running, no diving, and anything else relevant to your activity.
• Always follow Safety Activity Checkpoints for any water activities. Contact your council for details.

Keeping Cool and Hydrated

Whether it’s hot or not, girls and adults (yes, you too, don’t forget) need to drink lots of water. And when it’s hot outside, you’ll need to keep an eye out for heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Here’s how you can prepare:

• Know the signs and first aid for dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke.
• Take regular water breaks, and don’t forget to make sure the other adults and yourself are taking part, too!
• Take breaks in the shade regularly.

What are you favorite ways to make summer safety FUN?