Safety - Pediatric Center

Halloween Safety Tips

Oct 28, 2024 | Healthcare, Safety, Safety Tips

Keep your Kids and Teens Safe this Halloween!

Halloween is a night filled with excitement for children of all ages, but it also presents unique safety challenges. From choosing safe costumes to navigating the streets after dark, there are many things parents and caregivers should keep in mind to ensure their little ghouls and goblins stay safe. Whether you have young children eager to collect candy or teens venturing out with friends, these Halloween safety tips will help everyone have a safe and fun night.

Key Takeaways:

Choose visible, well-fitting costumes for children and teens to ensure they can move safely and be seen at night.
Teach children important road safety rules for navigating streets and sidewalks while trick-or-treating.
Set clear boundaries for teens, including a specific route and curfew.
Always inspect candy for safety before letting kids enjoy their treats.

Costume Safety for Kids and Teens

Costume choices are one of the most exciting parts of Halloween, but they can also pose safety risks if not selected carefully. Costumes should fit well to prevent tripping, and long, flowing fabrics should be avoided, especially when walking up steps or on uneven sidewalks. For younger children, opt for costumes that are easy to move in, ensuring they aren’t too bulky or restrictive. Teens should also choose costumes that allow freedom of movement and visibility.

Visibility Tips:

Use reflective tape or bright colors to make costumes stand out in the dark.
Equip your child with glow sticks, flashlights, or LED wristbands to ensure they are seen by drivers.
Avoid masks that block peripheral vision—opt for non-toxic face paint instead.

Trick-or-Treating Safety for Younger Children

For younger children, adult supervision is essential. Always accompany them while they trick-or-treat, or ensure they are in the company of a trusted adult or group. Plan a trick-or-treat route that sticks to well-lit streets and familiar neighborhoods to minimize risks. Some communities offer trunk-or-treat events, which take place in a controlled, well-lit area, making them an excellent option for young kids.

Discuss basic road safety rules before heading out. Teach them to walk on sidewalks when possible, use crosswalks, and look both ways before crossing the street. Remind them never to run between houses and to approach homes with their porch lights on, as this usually indicates they’re participating in the holiday. Always have a plan in case they get separated from the group, such as memorizing your phone number or knowing a designated meeting spot.

Safety Guidelines for Teens

As kids get older, they may want more independence, but safety should still be a priority. If your teens are going trick-or-treating with friends, set clear boundaries. Establish a curfew and agree on a specific route that avoids unfamiliar or poorly lit areas. Encourage them to stay in a group at all times and remind them of the importance of road safety, even if they’re familiar with the area.

Safety Reminders for Teens:

Stay with your group and avoid wandering off alone.
Follow all traffic rules, including crossing streets at crosswalks and paying attention to traffic signals.
Carry a fully charged cell phone and use a tracking app if necessary to stay connected.
Avoid entering strangers’ homes or accepting candy from people in cars.
Stick to well-lit areas and familiar neighborhoods, and don’t take shortcuts through alleys or parks.

For teens attending Halloween parties, stress responsible behavior. They should never accept food or drinks from people they don’t know and always stay with friends they trust. Encourage them to have a safe way home and to avoid risky behaviors like pranks or vandalism, which could lead to legal trouble or injuries.

Candy Safety and Allergies

One of the biggest highlights of Halloween is, of course, the candy. However, it’s important to prioritize candy inspection before allowing children to indulge. Look for any signs of tampering, such as opened wrappers or holes in the packaging. Discard any homemade treats unless they come from someone you know and trust.

If your child has food allergies, be extra vigilant and check candy ingredients to ensure they’re safe. When in doubt, it’s best to set aside any questionable treats and replace them with safe alternatives.

To prevent overindulgence, consider having your child eat a healthy snack before going out, so they aren’t tempted to eat too much candy while trick-or-treating. You can also ration out the treats in the days following Halloween to avoid a sugar overload.

Safe Trick-or-Treating Routes and Neighborhoods

When planning your trick-or-treat route, aim for well-lit streets and neighborhoods where you’re familiar with the homes. Look for community-organized events, like trunk-or-treats, where safety measures are often already in place. These events allow children to trick-or-treat from car to car in a designated area, which can be a safer alternative to traditional door-to-door trick-or-treating.

Avoid homes with no porch lights on, as this typically indicates the homeowner is not participating in Halloween. For families with very young children, consider trick-or-treating earlier in the evening when it’s still light out to minimize the risks associated with nighttime trick-or-treating.

Halloween Alternatives for Families

If traditional trick-or-treating doesn’t feel like the safest option for your family, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy Halloween. Hosting a Halloween party at home with games, a costume contest, and a candy scavenger hunt can offer a fun and controlled environment. You can also attend local indoor trick-or-treating events at malls or community centers, which provide a safe, well-lit environment for kids to collect treats.

Why Choose The Pediatric Center in Idaho Falls?

At The Pediatric Center, we care about your child’s safety year-round, and that includes special occasions like Halloween. Our team of experienced pediatricians is always here to offer advice on keeping your children safe, healthy, and happy. From routine checkups to seasonal safety tips, we’re dedicated to supporting your family’s well-being. If you have any concerns about Halloween safety, allergies, or any aspect of your child’s health, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at our Idaho Falls location at (208) 523-3060 or our Rigby location (208) 745-8927.

The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with your pediatrician or healthcare provider for professional guidance on your child’s health and safety, especially regarding specific medical concerns or conditions.

Swim Safely This Summer!

Jul 24, 2024 | Healthcare, Safety, Safety Tips, Summer Safety

Drowning Prevention in Kids: Essential Tips for Parents and Caregivers

Drowning is a leading cause of injury-related death among children, but with vigilance and proper precautions, many of these tragedies can be prevented. At the Pediatric Center, we are dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of children. Here are some essential tips to help prevent drowning and keep your kids safe around water.

Key Takeaways

Constant Supervision: Always keep an eye on your children when they are around water, and designate a responsible adult as a water watcher during gatherings.
Swimming Skills: Enroll your children in swimming lessons early and ensure they learn basic water safety skills.
Life Jackets: Use life jackets for children near natural bodies of water and weaker swimmers in pools.
Barriers and Alarms: Install proper fencing and alarms around home pools to add layers of protection.
CPR Knowledge: Learn CPR and ensure all caregivers are trained to respond to emergencies.
Water Safety Education: Continuously educate your children about the importance of water safety and following rules.

Supervision is Key in Preventing Drowning

Always watch your children when they are near water. This includes bathtubs, swimming pools, ponds, lakes, and even buckets of water. Active supervision means keeping your eyes on your child at all times and avoiding distractions. During gatherings, designate a responsible adult to watch the children in and around water. Rotate this responsibility to ensure continuous supervision.

Educate and Equipment for Drowning Prevention

Teaching your children to swim at an early age can greatly reduce the risk of drowning. Enroll them in swimming lessons as soon as possible, ensuring the instructors are certified. Additionally, use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets for children near natural bodies of water like lakes, rivers, or the ocean. Life jackets are also recommended for weaker swimmers in pools.

Creating Safe Swimming Environments

For home pools, installing a fence at least four feet high with self-closing, self-latching gates is essential. Pool covers and alarms can add an extra layer of protection. Make sure your pool is regularly maintained and has a clear view from the house. Remove any toys or floats from the pool area when not in use, as these can attract children.

Before allowing your children to dive or jump into water, always check the depth and ensure it’s safe. Teach them to enter the water feet first to avoid head and neck injuries.

Beyond Pools: Know the Risks

Be cautious with bathtubs and never leave a young child unattended. Even a few inches of water can pose a drowning risk. Use non-slip mats and keep the bathroom door closed when not in use. Other hidden hazards include buckets, toilets, and containers of water. Keep toilet lids closed and store buckets out of reach when not in use.

Emergency Preparedness

Learning CPR can be a lifesaver in emergency situations. Ensure you and other caregivers are trained and certified in CPR, as immediate response can make a critical difference. Establish and practice a family emergency plan for water-related incidents. Ensure everyone knows what to do and who to call for help.

Staying Informed and Vigilant

Talk to your children about water safety and the importance of following rules around water. Make sure they understand the dangers and know what to do in case of an emergency. Stay informed about water safety guidelines and updates from trusted organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: At what age should I start swimming lessons for my child?
The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that children can start swimming lessons as early as age one. However, the readiness of each child varies, so it’s important to consider their development and comfort level with water.

Q: How can I make my home pool safer?
Install a four-foot fence with a self-closing, self-latching gate around your pool. Consider adding pool alarms and safety covers, and remove toys from the pool area when not in use to prevent children from being tempted to enter the water unsupervised.

Q: Are floaties or inflatable armbands safe for my child?
Floaties and inflatable armbands are not substitutes for life jackets and can provide a false sense of security. It’s best to use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets, especially for younger or weaker swimmers.

Q: What should I do if I see a child struggling in the water?
Act immediately. If you are trained in water rescue, help the child out of the water. If not, call for help and try to reach the child with a long object, such as a pool noodle or a pole, without putting yourself at risk.

Q: How can I teach my child about water safety?
Talk to your child about the importance of following water safety rules. Use age-appropriate language and reinforce lessons through practice and positive reinforcement. Swimming lessons often include water safety education as part of the curriculum.

Q: Is it safe to leave my child in the care of a babysitter or relative around water?
Ensure that anyone caring for your child is aware of water safety practices and understands the importance of constant supervision. Provide clear instructions and emergency contact information.

By following these tips and maintaining a proactive approach to water safety, you can significantly reduce the risk of drowning and ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for your children. At the Pediatric Center, we are committed to supporting you in keeping your family safe. For more information and resources on water safety, feel free to reach out to our team.

Contact Us

If you have any questions or need further guidance on drowning prevention, please don’t hesitate to contact the Pediatric Center. We’re here to help you keep your children safe and healthy. The Pediatric Center has extended hours on nights and weekends as well as in-house labs and x-rays, so you can get the help your child needs, when they need it. Contact us at our Idaho Falls location at (208) 523-3060 or our Rigby location (208) 745-8927, to set up your appointment.

Fun in the Sun- Summer Safety Tips for Children

Jun 28, 2024 | Healthcare, Safety, Safety Tips, Summer Safety

As summer approaches, it’s time for families to enjoy the warm weather and outdoor activities. While summer is a season of fun and adventure, it’s essential to prioritize safety to ensure that children have a healthy and injury-free season. At the Pediatric Center, we care deeply about the well-being of your children. Here are some crucial summer safety tips to keep in mind.

1. Sun Protection

The summer sun can be harsh, and protecting your child’s skin is paramount.

Use Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 on your child’s skin 15-30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating. For infants under six months, it’s best to avoid direct sun exposure. If unavoidable, apply a small amount of sunscreen with at least SPF 15 to small areas like the face and back of the hands.
Choose Child-Friendly Sunscreen: Look for sunscreens specially formulated for children. These are often free from harmful chemicals and are less likely to irritate sensitive skin. Mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are excellent choices as they sit on top of the skin and provide a physical barrier against UV rays.
Wear Protective Clothing: Dress your child in lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats to shield their skin from harmful UV rays. Rash guards are great for additional protection during water activities.
Seek Shade: Encourage your children to play in shaded areas, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are strongest. Use umbrellas, tents, or canopies to create shade when at the beach or park.
Educate Older Children: Teach older children about the importance of sun protection and how to apply sunscreen themselves. Make it a routine part of their outdoor activities.

2. Hydration

Keeping your child hydrated is crucial, especially during hot summer days.

Encourage Regular Water Intake: Make sure your child drinks water regularly, even if they don’t feel thirsty. Dehydration can happen quickly in the heat.
Avoid Sugary Drinks: Limit the intake of sugary drinks and caffeine, as they can contribute to dehydration.
Eat Hydrating Foods: Include water-rich fruits and vegetables like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges in their diet.

3. Water Safety

Whether it’s a pool, lake, or ocean, water safety is vital.

Supervise at All Times: Always keep a close eye on children when they are near or in the water. Drowning can occur in just a few minutes and in shallow water.
Learn to Swim: Enroll your child in swimming lessons. Knowing how to swim can be a lifesaving skill.
Use Life Jackets: Ensure children wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets when boating or participating in water sports.
Teach Water Rules: Educate your children about the dangers of water, including the importance of not running near pools and not diving in shallow areas.

4. Insect Protection

Summer is prime time for insects, including mosquitoes and ticks, which can carry diseases.

Use Insect Repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to your child’s exposed skin and clothing. Avoid applying repellent to infants younger than two months.
Avoid Peak Insect Hours: Try to avoid outdoor activities during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
Check for Ticks: After playing outside, especially in wooded or grassy areas, check your child for ticks. Remove any ticks promptly and carefully.

5. Playground Safety

Playgrounds are a great place for children to burn off energy, but safety is key.

Inspect Playground Equipment: Ensure the equipment is in good condition and that the surfaces are safe and soft, like wood chips or rubber mats.
Dress Appropriately: Remove drawstrings and other cords from clothing that can get caught on equipment.
Follow Playground Rules: Teach children to use equipment properly and to wait their turn to avoid accidents.

6. Heat-Related Illness Prevention

Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are serious risks during the summer months.

Know the Signs: Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale and clammy skin, and fainting. Heatstroke symptoms include a high body temperature, hot, dry skin, rapid pulse, and possible unconsciousness.
Take Breaks: Ensure your child takes regular breaks in the shade or indoors to cool down.
Dress Appropriately: Light-colored, loose-fitting clothing helps keep the body cool.

7. Travel Safety

Summer often means road trips and vacations.

Use Car Seats: Ensure that your child is in the appropriate car seat or booster seat for their age, weight, and height.
Never Leave Children in Cars: Never leave your child unattended in a car, even for a short period. Cars can heat up rapidly, leading to heatstroke.
Plan Ahead: Keep snacks, water, and entertainment on hand to make travel more enjoyable and safer.

At the Pediatric Center, we believe that a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable summer for your children. Follow these tips to keep your kids healthy and happy all season long. If you have any questions or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to contact the Pediatric Center. We are here for you and your family when you need us with extended hours on nights and weekends as well as in-house labs and x-rays to help your family get healthy and stay healthy. Contact us at our Idaho Falls location at (208) 523-3060 or our Rigby location (208) 745-8927, to set up your appointment. Have a safe and happy summer!

Keeping Kids Safe and Strong During Sports

Apr 19, 2024 | Education, Healthcare, Safety, Safety Tips

As children dive into the world of sports, it’s natural for parents and coaches to want to see them excel and enjoy the game. However, ensuring their safety and well-being should always be the top priority. Sports injuries can be not only painful but also have long-term consequences, affecting a child’s ability to participate in their favorite activities. Here are some essential tips for preventing sports injuries in kids:

1. Proper Warm-up and Stretching: Before any physical activity, ensure that kids engage in a thorough warm-up routine. This helps prepare their muscles, tendons, and ligaments for the demands of exercise and reduces the risk of strains and sprains. Incorporating dynamic stretches that mimic the movements of the sport can be particularly beneficial.
2. Focus on Technique: Emphasize the importance of proper technique and form in sports training. Teaching children correct movement patterns not only enhances their performance but also reduces the likelihood of overuse injuries and musculoskeletal imbalances.
3. Use Appropriate Gear: Make sure children wear appropriate protective gear for their sport, such as helmets, pads, and supportive footwear. Properly fitting equipment can help prevent head injuries, fractures, and other traumatic injuries.
4. Hydration and Nutrition: Encourage kids to stay hydrated before, during, and after physical activity. Proper hydration supports optimal muscle function and helps regulate body temperature. Additionally, promote a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to fuel their bodies for peak performance and recovery.
5. Listen to Their Bodies: Teach children to listen to their bodies and recognize the signs of fatigue, pain, or discomfort. Encourage them to speak up if something doesn’t feel right and emphasize the importance of rest and recovery when needed.
6. Gradual Progression: Avoid sudden spikes in training intensity or volume. Gradually increase the duration and intensity of workouts to allow the body to adapt and reduce the risk of overuse injuries. Following the 10% rule—where training load is increased by no more than 10% per week—can help prevent overtraining and burnout.
7. Encourage Cross-Training: Encourage children to participate in a variety of sports and activities to promote overall athleticism and reduce the risk of overuse injuries. Cross-training engages different muscle groups and movement patterns, helping prevent imbalances and overuse of specific muscles.
8. Promote Rest and Recovery: Ensure that children have adequate rest days built into their training schedule. Rest is essential for muscle repair and growth, as well as preventing overuse injuries. Encourage active recovery activities, such as gentle stretching or low-impact exercises, on rest days.
9. Educate Coaches and Parents: Educate coaches and parents about the importance of injury prevention strategies and proper sportsmanship. Emphasize the value of balanced competition and the long-term health benefits of prioritizing safety over winning at all costs.

By implementing these proactive measures, we can create a safer and more enjoyable sports experience for children, allowing them to pursue their athletic passions while minimizing the risk of injury. Let’s empower our young athletes to play hard, play smart, and stay injury-free for years to come.

If you have any questions about sports injuries or any other health issue, contact the Pediatric Center for an appointment. At the Pediatric Center, we want to give you and your child the best care you can get. We offer in-house x-rays as well as extended hours on nights and weekends so we can give you the treatment you need, when you need it. Contact us at our Idaho Falls location at (208) 523-3060 or our Rigby location (208) 745-8927, to set up your appointment. We have a wonderful team of providers available for all of your children’s needs!

HPV-What you need to know

Feb 16, 2024 | Education, Healthcare, Safety, Safety Tips

HPV, or human papillomavirus, is a very common virus that can lead to cancers later in life. HPV is spread through intimate skin-to-skin or sexual contact. It can cause various types of cancers, including cervical, vaginal, vulvar, penile, anal, and cancers of tonsils, base of tongue, and back of throat (oropharyngeal cancer), as well as anogenital warts. In the United States, nearly 42 million people are currently infected with HPV, and about 13 million people, including teens, acquire HPV each year. Almost 36,000 individuals are estimated to be affected by HPV-related cancers annually.

Why get vaccinated against HPV?

HPV vaccination can prevent infection with certain types of the virus. This is crucial because HPV infections are incredibly common, and most people will contract at least one type of HPV at some point. While many HPV infections resolve on their own within two years, some can persist and lead to cancers later in life.

Who should get the HPV vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is routinely recommended for adolescents at 11 or 12 years old to ensure protection before potential exposure to the virus. However, it can be administered as early as age 9 and is recommended for everyone through 26 years of age.

How well do HPV vaccines work?

HPV vaccines are highly effective, preventing over 90% of HPV-attributable cancers. Since the vaccine’s introduction in 2006, infections with HPV types that cause most HPV cancers and genital warts have dropped 88% among teen girls and 81% among young adult women. Fewer teens and young adults are getting genital warts. HPV vaccination has also reduced the number of cases of precancers of the cervix in young women.

HPV is a prevalent virus with serious health implications, but vaccination offers a powerful defense against its associated cancers and complications. By ensuring vaccination for eligible individuals, we can reduce the burden of HPV-related diseases and work towards a healthier future for all.

If you have any questions about HPV or the HPV vaccine, contact the Pediatric Center. The Pediatric Center is your resource for information and healthcare treatment for infants, children, and teens in Idaho Falls and Rigby. Contact us at our Idaho Falls location at (208) 523-3060 or our Rigby location (208) 745-8927, to set up your appointment.

Check Your Car Seats!

Jan 19, 2024 | Education, Healthcare, Road Safety, Safety, Safety Tips

As parents, ensuring the safety of our children is a top priority, especially when it comes to travel. One crucial aspect of child safety on the road is the proper use of car seats. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends keeping children under 2 in a rear-facing car seat. This position provides optimal support for a child’s head, neck, and spine in the event of a crash. Many convertible car seats are designed to accommodate rear-facing for extended periods, providing a safer ride for your little one. Properly securing your child in the car seat is crucial.

Choose the Right Car Seat

The first step in ensuring your child’s safety is selecting the right car seat based on their age, weight, and height. There are different types of car seats, including rear-facing infant seats, convertible seats, and booster seats. Ensure that the harness straps lie flat against your child’s chest and shoulders, and the straps are snug enough that you can’t pinch any excess fabric. The chest clip should be positioned at armpit level to enhance safety. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure the seat is suitable for your child’s specific needs.

Stage 1: Rear-facing car seat for infants and toddlers

A rear-facing car seat has a harness and will protect your child’s head, neck and spine. A 5-point harness gives the best protection for your child. Keep your child in a rear-facing car seat for as long as possible, until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by their seat. Your child should continue to ride rear-facing in a convertible or all-in-one seat until they reach the rear-facing size limits for their seat.

Stage 2: Forward-facing car seat for toddlers and preschoolers

Your child will be ready for a forward-facing car seat with a harness when they reach their top height and weight limit allowed for their rear-facing car seat (check the manufacturer’s instructions). A 5-point harness gives the best protection for your child. Use a forward-facing car seat until they are at least 40 pounds. Many seats can be used for children up to 65 pounds.

Stage 3: Booster seat for school-aged children

Once your child outgrows their forward-facing car seat, it is the law that they use a booster seat with a lap and shoulder belt until they are 4 foot 9 inches tall. A booster will raise your child so their lap and shoulder belts fit properly – this will keep them as safe as possible until they are ready for a seat belt. Your child may need to use a booster for many years depending on how quickly they grow. Some children are not ready for a seat belt until they are 12 years old.

Stage 4: Seat belts for older children

Your child can safely ride without a booster seat once all of these steps are met:

Child’s back rests against the vehicle seat
Child’s knees bend at the edge of the seat
Lap belt rests on top of thighs (not the belly)
Shoulder belt lies between the neck and shoulder
Child does not slouch or play with the seat belt

Correct installation of the car seat is paramount. Whether using the LATCH system or the vehicle’s seat belt, follow the manufacturer’s instructions diligently. Make sure the seat is securely fastened with minimal wiggle room. Car seat safety doesn’t end after installation. Regularly inspect the car seat for any wear and tear, and ensure that it hasn’t expired. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning and maintenance to keep the seat in optimal condition.

If your child is younger than 13, they should continue to sit in the back seat. Wearing a seat belt is the law. Set a good example for your children. Your child will be more likely to wear their seat belt during every ride if they see that you and others in the car wear one too. Children learn by observing their parents. Buckle up every time you get in the car, and make it a non-negotiable rule for your family. Instilling good habits from an early age will contribute to a lifetime of safe driving practices.

Investing time and effort into understanding and implementing proper car seat safety measures is a small but significant step in ensuring your child’s well-being on the road. By choosing the right seat, securing your child correctly, and maintaining the seat properly, you play a vital role in creating a safe and secure environment for your little ones during every journey.

If you have any questions about car seat safety, contact the Pediatric Center. The Pediatric Center has been providing comprehensive care for infants, children, and teens in Idaho Falls and Rigby for over 55 years. Contact us at our Idaho Falls location at (208) 523-3060 or our Rigby location (208) 745-8927, to set up your appointment.

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