Simple Steps Can Go a Long Way Toward Reducing Accidents, Injuries

Play and recreation are vital to children’s well-being and development, according to an expert with ThedaCare. 

“Spending time outdoors benefits kids in so many ways,” said Dr. Elizabeth Ermatinger, a pediatrician with ThedaCare Physicians Pediatrics-Appleton. “From exploring the world to encouraging physical activity to engaging in imaginative play, outside time is a win.” 

Dr. Ermatinger shared some safety reminders for kids and parents alike. 

“Don’t let a warm day go sideways,” she said. “Simple safety steps like applying sunscreen when planning to stay out in the sun and wearing a bike helmet when cycling can go a long way in reducing the likelihood of accidents and injuries.” 

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends kids wear a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. 

“It’s important to wear sunscreen outdoors, regardless of the season,” Dr. Ermatinger said. “That applies to overcast and sunny days.”

For best results, people should apply sunscreen between 15 and 30 minutes before going outside, she said. She also encouraged people to:

• Cover all exposed areas, including the often-overlooked body parts of the ears, hands, feet, bridge of the nose and beneath swimsuit straps.
• Protect their lips with an SPF 30 lip balm.
• Apply sunscreen generously.
• Reapply every two hours or more, especially if swimming or sweating.
• Keep babies younger than 6 months old out of direct sunlight.

“If we teach our children to always wear sunscreen when they’re young, it can set up good health habits for the future,” Dr. Ermatinger said. “Ask your child’s doctor if you have questions about which sunscreen is right for them.”

Biking? Wear A Helmet

Bike helmets can help prevent serious head and face injuries during a fall. Wearing one may decrease the risk of head injuries by about 85%, according to the AAP.

“Helmets and bike riding should go hand in hand for people of all ages,” Dr. Ermatinger said. “Kids watch what adults do. Set a positive example by wearing a helmet whenever you bike.”

It’s important to buy bike helmets that meet the safety standards of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Dr. Ermatinger said. They should fit snuggly, include a chin strap and be replaced if damaged during a crash.

“Make sure kids also wear helmets for other warm-weather activities like rollerblading, skateboarding, horseback riding and all-terrain vehicle riding,” she said.

Swim Safety

Swimming offers a great way to get active and beat the heat. At the same time, it’s important to follow precautions to ensure everyone stays safe, Dr. Ermatinger said.

Drowning is a leading cause of death among children, especially for kids between the ages of 1 and 4 years, according to the AAP.

“Enrolling your child in swimming lessons is a great first step,” Dr. Ermatinger said. “It’s also important to stay vigilant and ensure everyone follows the rules and safety precautions at pools and beaches.”

The American Red Cross offers water safety recommendations including but not limited to:

• Swimming in designated areas with lifeguard supervision.
• Avoiding swimming alone.
• Providing close and constant attention to children, even when a lifeguard is present.
• Having young children or inexperienced swimmers wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets around water.

Take Care With Trampolines

As many children can attest, trampolines offer hours of fun. While the fun is undeniable, so is the risk. According to the National Institutes of Health, trampolines led to more than 800,000 injuries among kids and teens between 2009 and 2018. That led the AAP to recommend against letting children use trampolines, except in a setting that includes professional coaches and specialized equipment.

“It’s easy to understand the draw of trampolines,” Dr. Ermatinger said. “If you do choose to have one at your home or let your child play on one, consider following safety precautions.”

AAP recommends the following: wait until kids are at least 6 years old before allowing them to use a trampoline, adult supervision at all times, only one child on the trampoline at a time, no somersaults or flips, no jumps from rooftops or high places onto the trampoline, and take the ladder down when no one is bouncing.

“A few simple steps today can protect a whole summer of fun,” Dr. Ermatinger said. “Start before you step outside.”

Learn more summer safety tips or connect with a pediatrician at ThedaCare Pediatrics.

About ThedaCare

For more than 115 years, ThedaCare® has been improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves in northeast and central Wisconsin. The organization delivers care to more than 650,000 residents in 17 counties, and employs approximately 7,000 providers and team members at 180 points of care, including 10 hospitals. As an organization committed to being a leader in Population Health, team members are dedicated to empowering people to live their unique, best lives. ThedaCare is a not-for-profit health system with a level II trauma center, comprehensive cancer treatment, stroke and cardiac programs, as well as primary care. ThedaCare also partners with communities to understand needs, find solutions together, and encourage health awareness and action. ThedaCare is part of Froedtert ThedaCare, Wisconsin’s most comprehensive healthcare system.

For more information, visit thedacare.org or follow ThedaCare on social media.

Date posted: June 11, 2026