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Summer is the season for injuries and other heat related illnesses. Many summertime injuries and illnesses can be prevented with a few precautions.
by: Dr. Adrienne Suggs
Director of Pediatric Emergency and Inpatient Services at Franklin Square Hospital Center
The best line of defense against sunburn is to avoid sun exposure, which can be easier said than done. The best approach is to dress your child appropriately and stay in the shade when possible. You should dress infants and children in lightweight long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and brimmed hats. Older children should wear sunglasses, preferably those that block UV rays. When adequate clothing and shade are not possible, sunscreen should be applied. Sunscreen should contain a minimal SPF of 15 and should be used on both sunny and cloudy days. It should be applied at least 30 minutes before going outside and reapplied every 2 hours, or after swimming or sweating.
