Walkers:
Walkers should not be used under any circumstances. Do
not purchase one. If you have one do not use it. A significant number of
children who use walkers have sustained injuries requiring medical
attention. Some injuries have resulted in brain injuries and even death.
Bikes, Playgrounds and Scooters:
For safety information on Bikes, Playgrounds, Scooters and other safety
information for children see this CPSC
article
Product Recalls:
For a complete listing of product recalls including
products and toys for children by the United States Consumer and Product and
Safety Commission, click this link:
Product
Recalls.
Sunscreen
The
sun is the main cause of skin cancer and
skin cancer is the most common cancer in
the United States. Research has shown
that only two or more blistering
sunburns as a child or teen increases
the risk of developing skin cancer later
in life. Babies six months or younger
should be kept out of direct sunlight.
Don't forget that damaging UV rays can
bounce off sand, concrete, water and
snow. UV rays can penetrate through
clouds on an overcast day. Keep your
children protected by dressing
them in light weight long sleeve shirts,
long pants and a hat with a brim that
covers the ears. Sunglasses with UV
protection are also a good idea. Reapply
sunscreen every 80 minutes or after
swimming or sweating. Sunscreen can be
used on a child 6 months or older.
Children 4 or 5 months old can only have
sunscreen on their arms and legs. Please
remember sunscreen should be used for
sun protection and not as a reason to
stay in the sun longer. Look for a
sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or greater,
preferably waterproof and PABA free.
Choosing a "broad Spectrum" sunscreen
will protect your children from UVA and
UVB rays. Always test the sunscreen on
your child's back for a reaction before
applying to the entire body. Stay in the
shade whenever possible and avoid sun
exposrue during peak hours 10:00am to
4:00pm.
Insect Repellent:
Insect
repellent can be applied on children
6 months and older. Make sure
the repellent contains no more than
10% DEET. Apply sparingly on
exposed skin and clothing. Do
not use under clothing. Avoid
applying to areas around the eyes
and mouth; do not use on the hands
of young children as they tend to
put them in their mouths. When
using sprays, do not spray directly
on face - spray on your hands first
and then apply to your child's face.
Do not use a sunscreen containing
DEET. However, it is okay to
use sunscreen and a bug repellent
containing DEET at the same time.
The sunscreen will wash off, where
as DEET is not water soluble and can
last up to 8 hours. A single
application of bug repellent should
cover your child for the entire day.
Do not use DEET over cuts, wounds or
irritated skin. Wash treated
skin with soap and water after
returning indoors. Wash
treated clothing as well.
