According to Jennifer Sharpe, RN, a Catawba County school nurse with Sweetwater Elementary and Arndt Middle School, two important tips for summer fun include sun protection and water safety.  Following is her advice for families and children this summer:

“Now that summer is here, everyone in the family should be safe while playing outside or enjoying outside summer activities.  One of the most important things is to always wear sunscreen when outside.  You should wear sunscreen even if you are only going to be out for short periods of time.  
“It is recommended to avoid sunscreens that have insect repellent in them, since sunscreen has to be applied more often than the repellent.  Also, cover up with sunglasses, shirts, and hats when going out in the sun.

“If you will be going to swimming pools, or if you have a pool at your home, water safety is especially important this time of the year.  Your child should always be supervised around any form of water, no matter how old they are.  It has been found that young children can drown in as little as two inches of water.  

“If you have a pool in your yard, make sure that you have at least a four foot tall fence around your pool, that the slats in the fence are no more than four inches apart, and that all gates lock securely.”  

Sharpe’s rules for pool safety include the following:

• No running around the pool
• Get out of the water if rain, thunder, or lighting develops
• No diving in areas unless marked OK for diving
• Always supervise children
• If an emergency should arise, get an adult or lifeguard immediately

For more information about water and sun safety, visit www.kidshealth.org or call the Health First Center at Valley Hills Mall, 828/485-2300.