Page 87 - GreenBook

J. Sun Safety:
It is easier to prevent sunburn than to treat it. Sunscreen should be applied
before and repeatedly during all outdoor activities. For infants less than 6
months of age, sunscreen without PABA should be chosen. Look for products
made specifically for children such as Waterbabies. An SPF (sun protection
factor) 15 is the best. Sunburn should be treated like any other burn. See
Section V-E, Burns.

K. Insect Bite Prevention:

1. To prevent insect bites avoid scented hair and body products and bright and
flower printed clothing.

2. Do not use combination sunscreen and insect repellent products because
sunscreen needs to be reapplied every 2 hrs and insect repellent should not
be reapplied.

3. Insect repellents containing DEBT are most effective against ticks and the
mosquitoes that transmit West Nile Virus and other viruses.

^ 4. The current AAP recommendation for children over 2 months of age is to

use 30% DEBT.

a. DEBT should not be used on infants less than 2 months of age.
b. 10% DEBT only protects for about 30 minutes - not adequate for

most outings.
5. The concentration of DEBT varies significantly between products so read

the labels on products you use.
6. Repellent should be washed off when back indoors.

L. Water Safety:
Young children love to play in water. Swimming and playing in water can give
your child much pleasure and good exercise. There are some precautions that
m you should take to make planned water play safe and to prevent drowning.

The following information is presented by the American Academy of Pediatrics
as part of their Injury Prevention Program.

1. Home Water Hazards For Young Children:
Water hazards other than swimming pools and other bodies of water exist in and

around the home.

MD a. Bathtubs, even with baby bathtub "supporting ring" devices. Hot tubs,
spas, and whirlpools.

b. Buckets and pails, especially 5-gallon buckets and diaper pails.

c. Toilets.
d. Ice chests with melted ice.

e. Fish ponds, fountains, irrigation ditches, post holes and wells.

NEVER leave your child alone in or near water. They can drown in and inch or

two of water.

2. Water Safety For Your Young Child:
a. Teach your child to swim once he or she is ready (usually around 5
years old.) No young child is "water safe" even if the child knows how to

swim.

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