Dr. Lara Zibners has written a really great manual for parents,  If Your Kid Eats This Book, Everything Will Still Be Okay.  Listen to the interview.

Summertime Safety Tips from Dr. Lara Zibners

Water safety
A toddler can drown in less than an inch of water. Thus danger isn’t only limited to large bodies of water. No child should be left unsupervised around pools, lakes or rivers. Buckets of water and kiddie pools should also be completely drained after use. And a “locked” door in a house is not the equivalent of a secure pool fence.

Sun safety
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children be covered in long pants and sleeves at all times when out in the sun. However, most kids are going to be out in the sun, putting them at risk for sunburn and heat exhaustion. Small infants are particularly at risk for overheating and sunburn in any age child increases the risk of dehydration. Kids should always be covered in sunscreen, minimum SPF 15, which should be frequently reapplied, especially after swimming or sweating. Try to keep younger kids in the shade as much as possible and everyone should be especially careful when the sun is at its peak.

Sunburn care
If a kid gets burned despite everyone’s best efforts, treatment is dependent upon how severe and large the burn is. A mild burn is best treated with cool compresses, a dose of ibuprofen (for pain and inflammation), and plenty of fluids. Large burns, those that involve large blistered areas, or burns in children under one should be brought to the attention of a professional. These burns are no different than any other kind of burn and can cause serious complications if left unattended.

Pet safety
Warm summer days mean being outside, which means encounters with stray or wild animals. Kids should be taught the basics of animal safety, such as not approaching unknown animals or remaining motionless when approached by an animal with which they are not familiar. In case of a bite, thorough cleansing of the wound, control of bleeding and contacting the family doctor are important steps. Whether a child requires antibiotics or more advanced wound care depends on the extent of the injuries and the type of animal involved.

Bike and scooter safety
If it has wheels, the kid has a helmet. Period. Even a toddler, who should be riding only toys that allow both feet to settle firmly on the ground can get in the habit of wearing a helmet. Kids should use riding toys only in secure areas without traffic and never use a vehicle that is intended for a child who is much older.

Insect bites
The old myth about scraping away a bee stinger is just that, a myth. It’s been shown that the most important factor in reducing the effects of a bee sting is rapid removal of the stinger, using whatever means possible. Beyond that, all insect bites are treated basically the same: cool compresses, pain control with acetaminophen or ibuprofen, and elevation if possible. In the case of a severe allergic reaction, with difficulty breathing, losing consciousness or severe swelling of the lips and tongue, 911 should be called immediately.