Safety Reminders for Grandparents This Summer
Writer / Renee Oswalt, Childbirth Educator at IU Health West Hospital
Photography Provided
With the summer finally here and kids out of school, grandkids have more time to spend with their grandparents. Though many activities are fun, there can also be potential dangers. With that being said, it is important to know what to look out for while watching your grandchildren this summer. 
Car Seats
According to the Indiana State Police, in Indiana all children under the age of 8 must be properly restrained in a child safety seat or booster seat, according to the child restraint system manufacturer’s instructions. All car seats are different, so it is best to read the instruction manual and go to a local inspection station. For those who need high-quality auto parts and supply, make sure to consider purchasing from St Catharines auto parts. They also have a Mercedes Benz shop Santa Clarita that repairs and restores the look of the luxury car. Workshop Manual provides downloadable copies of numerous cars’ manuals.
Medications
Make sure you know your grandchild’s medical history, so you know if they need to take any medications and in case the child experiences a medical emergency while in your care. If so, know how much and how frequently to provide the dose. Children aged 12 and under should not be given aspirin since it is connected to Reye syndrome, an illness that causes nausea, vomiting and behavioral changes, and also often requires treatment in a hospital. Medications should always be out of reach and out of sight of children, or stored in child-resistant containers. It is important to keep your purse or backpack away from grandchildren as well, because medications may be kept there.
Helmets
Whenever your grandkid is on a bike, skateboard, rip stick or other toy, make sure they are wearing a helmet to prevent serious injury. It is recommended that children use helmets while riding bicycles to reduce the likelihood of head trauma, including traumatic brain injury and related consequences. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is important for kids to wear helmets until they are at least 16 years old.
Water
Children are curious and drawn to water. Keep small children safe from any open water. Even a cooler with melted ice can be a hazard to a toddler.
Avoiding Small Objects 
A good rule of thumb is that if it can go through a toilet paper roll, it is a choking hazard. Small button-shaped batteries, like those used for hearing aids, can cause severe damage if swallowed, inhaled or put up a child’s nose. These items can cause life-threatening chemical burns as well.
Backyards and Garages
Inspect your backyard for anything hazardous or poisonous. Keep the grandchildren out of the yard when you are mowing the lawn. Never let children ride on a lawnmower with you. Garages can have garden chemicals, auto products, pesticides and tools. Make sure to keep them in a locked cabinet and out of reach.
