Enjoy Summer Fun While Staying Safe

Kids’ Top 5 Summer Injuries and How to Treat Them

Summer is a great time for kids to get outside and enjoy parks, playgrounds, Lake Erie and neighborhood activities. While summer fun can sometimes lead to bumps, bruises and other injuries, knowing what to do can help keep your child safe.

Here are five common summer injuries and tips for treating them.

1. Bee Stings

Most bee stings cause pain, redness and swelling only where the sting happened. You can often treat these symptoms with ice and an over-the-counter antihistamine, such as Benadryl. If your child has a history of severe allergic reactions, always carry an epinephrine auto-injector, such as an EpiPen.

When to call your pediatric provider

• Pain, swelling or a rash spreads beyond the sting area
• Symptoms are getting worse instead of better

When to go to the Emergency Department

• Trouble breathing
• Swelling around the mouth or face
• A feeling that the throat is closing

Bonus tip: Bee sting allergies often appear after a second or third sting, not the first. If bee allergies run in your family, consider carrying an antihistamine when spending time outdoors.

2. Scrapes and Cuts

Skinned knees and scraped elbows are common during the summer. If your child is bleeding, apply firm pressure with a clean cloth for 10 minutes. Wash cuts and scrapes with soap and water, then cover them with a clean bandage.

When to call your pediatric provider

• The area is warm, red or swollen
• Pus develops
• Red streaks appear near the wound

These may be signs of an infection.

When to go to the Emergency Department

• Bleeding does not stop after 10 minutes of firm pressure
• The cut appears deep and may need stitches

3. Head Injuries

Kids often bump their heads while playing. A small bump or "goose egg" can usually be treated with ice and rest.

When to go to the Emergency Department

• Your child loses consciousness
• Your child is acting unusually
• Repeated vomiting occurs
• One pupil looks larger than the other

These symptoms may be signs of a more serious injury and should be checked right away.

4. Sprains and Strains

Active kids often injure their ankles, wrists and arms during sports and outdoor play.

When to call your pediatric provider

• Your child heard a pop or crack during the injury
• Your child cannot put weight on the injured area
• There is swelling or tenderness over a bone

These symptoms may mean an X-ray is needed. If you plan to visit Express Care, call ahead to make sure imaging is available.

When to go to the Emergency Department

• An X-ray is needed, but your provider or urgent care location cannot perform one

5. Heat Exposure

Hot summer days can be dangerous, especially when children are active outdoors. Encourage your child to drink water often, even before they feel thirsty. Children playing sports may need water breaks more frequently.

When to call your pediatric provider

• A sunburn causes blisters
• Your child is urinating less than usual
• Your child may be dehydrated

When to go to the Emergency Department

• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Confusion
• Nausea
• Stopping sweating during hot weather

These may be signs of severe dehydration or heat illness.

Bonus tip: Apply sunscreen before your child goes outside and reapply it as directed, especially after swimming or sweating.

Care Options for Non-Emergencies

If your child's condition is not an emergency, you have several convenient care options:

• Metro Express Care for minor illnesses and injuries
• Virtual Urgent Care for care from the comfort of home
• Parma Pediatric Walk-In Clinic for children with cold and flu symptoms, breathing concerns, skin conditions and other common illnesses

When in doubt, contact your child's pediatric provider. They can help you decide the best place to get care and keep your child healthy all summer long.

Your Questions Answered

Q. What are the most common summer injuries for kids?

A. Some of the most common summer injuries include bee stings, cuts and scrapes, head bumps, sprains and strains, and heat-related illnesses. Most can be treated at home, but it is important to know the warning signs that mean your child needs medical care.

Q. When should I take my child to the Emergency Department?

A. Seek emergency care if your child has trouble breathing after a bee sting, bleeding that will not stop, loss of consciousness after a head injury, signs of a broken bone, severe dehydration, or confusion from heat exposure.

Q. How can I help prevent summer injuries?

A. Make sure your child wears protective gear during sports, stays hydrated, uses sunscreen, watches for bees and insects, and follows safety rules while playing outdoors. A little preparation can help keep summer fun and injury-free.