12 Surprising Summer Dangers—and How to Keep Kiddos Safe

Summer can bring plenty of joy, and you’re probably eagerly looking forward to baby’s first time experiencing the beach sand or taking them to your favorite picnic spot. While there are lots of sunshine-filled adventures to be had, the summer months also bring some hazards for babies that may not be top of mind, warns Karen Klawitter, MD, a pediatrician with JustAnswer based in Illinois and Florida. “Parents need to put away their phones and devices and watch their children—even get in there and play too,” she says. “As a mom of five now adult children, they grow up so fast!”

To ensure you and your littles have a happy and safe summer, we’ve asked experts to break down some of the biggest summer dangers to look out for and how to side-step them so you and baby can safely enjoy everything these months have to offer.

The Blazing Sun

You probably already know the importance of protecting baby’s skin from a sunburn, but it’s not as simple as lathering them up with sunscreen. In fact, for babies under 6 months old, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says it’s best to just avoid direct sun exposure altogether. When you’re out in the sun, use sun hats, umbrellas and baby-size shades. If you have to, the AAP says it’s okay to apply a little sunscreen to small exposed areas of skin on babies under 6 months, like the face and back of hands, tips of ears and tops of feet.

For babies older than 6 months, you can use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) on any area of exposed skin 15 to 30 minutes before heading out—just be sure to choose one that’s designed for young kids. Be sure to test it on a small patch of baby’s skin first, and if a rash develops, call your doctor.) Once you’re out, re-apply as often as is needed. “One of the things that people often forget is that you really do need to reapply every two hours, particularly if you’re swimming or sweating,” says Elizabeth Cilenti, MD, MPH, a pediatrician with Northern Virginia Family Practice.

For these reasons, when the temperatures are soaring, avoid direct sunlight, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun is at its strongest, says Klawitter. Plus, choose shaded areas to play in when outside. “Parents should be monitoring UV rays on weather apps and commit to full sun protection for UVs 3 or higher,” she adds.

Rising Temperatures

This might be a no-brainer, but when it’s steamy outside, it’s important to limit how much time you spend outdoors with baby. Heading out with baby in tow for an hour or so is fine, as long as you stay in the shade (or under an umbrella). But if you’re planning to be at the pool or beach all day, consider hiring a sitter to stay inside with baby, if possible. Babies and young children are particularly vulnerable to heatstroke. According to Cilenti, “Kids with their smaller bodies can heat up faster than adults and tend to have a reduced ability to sweat effectively compared to an adult… and might not be able to communicate when they’re overheating.” And excitable toddlers won’t willingly slow down their activity levels the way adults do.

If you do have to be outside, take frequent breaks indoors and in shade. Plus, make sure to keep your child well-hydrated with breast milk, water (if older than 6 months old) and, for kids older than one year, electrolyte drinks, bite-sized watermelon, cucumbers and other hydrating snacks.

Poor Air Quality

According to the American Lung Association, the summer months can worsen air quality, due to higher temperatures and ozone pollution buildup. On days when air quality in your area is poor, it’s best to be inside, Klawitter says.

Cilenti agrees, noting that kids are “more vulnerable to poor air quality than adults, due to their still developing lungs, their increased respiratory rates” and their increased energy levels for outdoor play. “Unfortunately, this means that kids may be spending more time cooped up indoors during the summer months,” Cilenti notes. “It’s hard to strike a balance between making sure kids are getting enough outdoor exercise and also avoiding environmental hazards like high temperature and poor air quality.”

Open Bodies of Water

Drowning remains a leading cause of death for kids under 5 years old. You may think that drowning is loud and obvious, but it can be quiet and happens quicker than you realize. Unfortunately, per the AAP, babies can drown in less than 2 inches of water. “The most important thing parents can do is provide close and constant supervision of children, particularly toddlers, anytime they’re in or around water,” Cilenti says. You want to be close enough to be able to grab them if they do become submerged and fully attentive. Skip distractions, like cell phones, and avoid drinking alcoholic beverages, even if a life guard is on duty. “Some parents enlist a designated ‘water watcher’ whose only job is 100 percent supervision of the child or children in and around water,” Klawitter adds.

Other important water safety tips, according to Klawitter: Have proper barriers, like a fence or gates for pools Be aware of potential rip currents in the ocean Learn now how to perform infant CPR Put baby in swim lessons at age one Always put baby in a life vest when in a body of water or on a boat

Pesky Pesticides

It’s no secret that babies love to put anything and everything in their mouths—even grass and dirt. While grass itself isn’t poisonous to babies, it could pose risks if it’s been recently treated with pesticides and herbicides. To help keep littles safe, the AAP, advises against letting kids play outside until at least 48 hours after an area’s been treated.

Mystery Plants

Also be mindful of any dangerous plants and keep them out of baby’s reach, advises Klawitter. Once your child’s a bit older, teach them how to identify plants like poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac (phrases like “leaves of three, let them be” can help). “If they come in contact with such plants, wash immediately with soap and water or take a cool shower. Seek medical attention if [you see a] rash or other symptoms,” Klawitter adds. In case of emergencies, it’s also helpful to note the poison help line (800-222-1222).

Mosquitos, Bugs and Repellants (Oh My!)

Mosquitos, ticks, bees, wasps and other natural, pesky critters all come out to play in the summer months. While mosquitoes aren’t a danger to baby’s health, ticks and other bugs might be, so it’s important to keep kids protected. Unfortunately, the real hazard when it comes to young babies and bugs is the stuff you use to keep those creepy-crawlers at bay. According to Cilenti, there are a couple of options for kids: insect sprays—such as bug and tick repellents with 10 to 20 percent DEET and Picaridin—and products made using oil of lemon eucalyptus (for kids older than 3 years old).

For DEET-based repellents, you can use these on babies 2 months and older, but it should be used sparingly on exposed skin due to risk of absorption. Plus, you always want to wash off the spray with soap and water once you’re back inside. It’s also important to note that experts don’t recommend using bug spray and sunscreen together, as sunscreen needs to be frequently re-applied and bug spray should be used in small amounts. Instead, opt to protect kids from bugs with protective clothing and mosquito nets for strollers.

Another way to protect your child from bugs? “Avoid areas with standing water, which can be a breeding ground for mosquitos, and areas with tall grass and brush or wooded areas which may have ticks,” Klawitter says. It’s also important to check for ticks once you’re home from an outdoor outing.

Window Access

We get it: It’s nice to enjoy the summer breezes. But you may not realize how easy it is for even very young babies to roll, wiggle, push or crawl out of open—and, yes, even screened—windows. Install window guards near changing tables, cribs and any other areas where baby may be crawling or playing, Klawitter says, and lock them whenever you’re not using them. “Ideally, open windows from the top and avoid placing furniture near them to prevent access,” she adds. You’ll also want to secure any window blind cords to prevent strangulation risk.

Spaces That Aren’t Childproofed

Hitting the road for summer travels or a visit with the grandparents? You’ll want to consider how you’ll keep baby safe during your trip. “One of the hardest things about traveling with kids is the lack of control you have over where you’ll be staying,” Cilenti says. “It’s hard to travel with every possible supply you could need to baby proof your hotel room or vacation rental and all of the gear that your child needs.”

Assess your surroundings for potential hazards, like sharp and unsecured furniture, electrical outlets, stairs and more. “Keep an eye out for small parts, especially in drawers and cabinets that aren’t locked, and consider just removing things that could be a danger and putting them in a place where your child can’t reach them,” advises Cilenti. There are travel childproofing kits you can buy with outlet covers, locks, etc., but Cilenti says the best way to keep kids safe on the go is by keeping a close eye on them. If you have room, consider bringing a small portable crib or playard, Klawitter adds. This helps your baby have a safe space for play and sleep.

Bike-Ride Injuries

Taking a summer bike or tricycle ride with your toddler is great, but it’s crucial to always put them in a helmet, regardless of how short the ride is, Klawitter notes. You also want to teach kiddos bike safety and dress them in bright and reflective clothing so they’re properly visible to traffic. “Parents should teach road safety, hand signals and to be mindful of pedestrians and other traffic,” Klawitter says. “Children should always have adult supervision while riding.”

Trampolines

This one may sound like a bit of a bummer, but—as fun as they can be—trampolines can be incredibly dangerous. What’s more, safety nets don’t do much to reduce the risk. “The AAP strongly discourages their use both at home and at trampoline parks,” Cilenti notes. “Unfortunately, trampolines are still widespread and children persist in finding them very fun.” If you do bring your toddler to a trampoline or trampoline park, always supervise them and don’t allow multiple children to jump at once. Plus, discourage them from doing somersaults and other “tricks”.

Wired BBQ Brushes

This is one safety tip you may not think of, but wired grill brushes can be hazardous to children (and adults!). As a 2023 viral news story found, the bristles can break off and be accidentally ingested. Instead, swap them for nylon brushes or balled up aluminum foil to clean the grill. “If using one, always inspect the grill brush, grill grates and even the food for broken bristles,” Klawitter says.

You want your summer to be carefree—but if you’re a new parent, you’ll be on the clock 24/7 making sure your little one is happy and safe. Keep the above tips in mind so you can be fully prepared and reward yourself with some much-deserved relaxation.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.