There are several risks that parents should be aware of to protect their children during summer activities, ranging from migraines to sunburn and drowning hazards in open water. In this regard, Helen Wool, a general practitioner and clinical director of public health at NHS Greater Manchester, discussed eight risks that people should be aware of:
**Drowning**
The Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS) stated that just two inches of water can be enough to drown a small child, so it is important not to leave children unattended. Experts noted the risk of cold water shock when swimming in open water.
**Sunstroke**
Children may continue to run around when it's hot without noticing the early signs of sunstroke that can threaten their lives. They may exhibit signs such as fatigue, dizziness, or muscle cramps. Wool said that if they don’t feel better after 30 minutes in a cooler place, medical help should be sought.
**Migraine**
Continuous exposure to sunlight can cause painful migraines. Dr. Helen stated, "About 10% of children aged 5 to 15 suffer from migraines, and up to 28% of teenagers experience them. If your child is suffering from a really painful headache, minimize noise, provide plenty of fluids, and administer ibuprofen and paracetamol, which can be given alternately every 4 hours."
**Food Poisoning**
Cases of food poisoning tend to rise in summer, as people may not pay much attention to what they eat, and children are more susceptible to it than adults. Barbecues in the sun may result in food not being cooked properly. Wool remarked, "Foodborne bacteria, such as listeria and salmonella, can make children very ill," adding that it is important to keep children hydrated if they experience diarrhea or vomiting.
**Sunburn**
Sunscreen and hats should be used to prevent sunburn in children, and sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours and after they leave the water.
**Dehydration**
Being in hot weather can lead to dehydration in children if they do not drink plenty of fluids. Symptoms include fatigue, dizziness, and sunken eyes. Wool pointed out that by the time a child feels thirsty, dehydration may have already begun.
**Heat Rash**
Children sweat more than usual in hot weather, and rashes can occur when sweat glands become blocked. Although it can be itchy, Wool stated that it is not dangerous. She advises trying to keep the child cool if they are suffering from heat rash.
