Summer is made for memories — road trips, pool days and backyard barbecues. But as temperatures climb, it’s easy to overlook simple safety steps that can keep those memories joyful. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a lazy afternoon at the park, these reminders can help you and your loved ones stay ready for adventure.
Supervise, supervise, supervise — every second counts
Pools and splash pads offer relief from the heat, but they also require a parent’s constant attention.
“Everyone thinks drowning looks like the movies: splashing, screaming for help,” says Jeremy Driscoll, MD, emergency medicine physician at HonorHealth Scottsdale Osborn Medical Center. “It almost never does. It’s silent and it’s fast.”
He recommends taking these steps to help keep kids safe around water:
- Supervise children at all times. Even two seconds is too long to divert your attention.
- Learn CPR and enroll kids in formal swim lessons early.
- Use flotation safety devices for non-swimmers. That means a Coast Guard-approved life jacket, not flimsy “arm floaties” or pool toys.
- Secure your pool. Arizona law requires pool barriers at least five feet high, and Dr. Driscoll suggests “a four-sided fence with a self-latching gate around the pool itself.”
- Have a phone outside by the pool in case of emergency.
Little one swallowed water? Persistent coughing and tiredness afterwards could signal a serious condition.
“Any time a child goes under and inhales water, even if they seem totally fine afterward, go to the ER,” advises Dr. Driscoll. “There is a serious condition commonly called ‘dry drowning’ where water in the lungs causes inflammation that develops in the hours after the incident.”
Watch out for heat illness
Don’t assume you’re cool and hydrated just because you’re at the pool. According to Dr. Driscoll, that’s a dangerous misconception.
“The rule I give parents is simple, he says. “If your kids have been outside in the Arizona heat all day, they’re already behind on fluids before they ever get in the water. Hydrate before, during, and after activity — not just when you’re thirsty.”
Also watch out for signs of heat illness.
- Heat cramps: Painful muscle cramps are often the first sign of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Rest, rehydrate and replenish electrolytes.
- Heat exhaustion: Symptoms include heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea and a rapid pulse. Stop activity immediately and move to a cool, shaded area.
- Heat/sun stroke: Flushed skin, vomiting, rapid heart rate and fast breathing signal a medical emergency. Call 911 right away, cool the person down and offer water. “The warning sign is confusion — someone who is disoriented, slurring their words or acting combative in the heat,” Dr. Driscoll advises.
Be mindful of Arizona’s desert perils
- Plan outdoor activities wisely. Tackle outdoor chores in the early morning or late evening to avoid peak heat.
- Keep your car cool. Park in shaded areas, crack windows and use sunshades. Never leave children or pets alone in a vehicle — even for a short time.
- Protect feet and paws. Sidewalks and pavement can become hot enough to cause first‑degree burns, especially for toddlers and pets.
- Encounter a desert critter? Stay calm and take these safety steps for bites and stings.
- Use sunscreen... correctly. Apply generously and don’t forget commonly missed spots like the tops of ears, back of the neck and tops of feet. Hats and sunglasses also help protect skin and eyes from harmful UV rays.
- Stay hydrated. Drink about 16 ounces of water before heading outdoors, then about 8 ounces every 20 minutes during activity — more if you’re sweating heavily.