As summer starts to swing into action, so does our tendency to spend time outdoors. From beaches to lakes to high mountain trails, packing up the family for a trip into nature proves a wonderful warm-weather venture. Special health and first-aid precautions, however, are necessary, especially when kids are involved, and especially if you plan to camp. The Essentials Take along plenty of water, especially when traveling to remote areas or those with a hot climate. Always carry a small first-aid kit, even when taking day hikes.
Kids get hungry quick, especially with the open energy of the great outdoors.
Make sure you know the route, and bring detailed maps of the area. Tell everyone that an adult must always accompany younger children when going further out, and older kids must leave notice of where they are heading. Wear long pants, closed shoes, and socks to avoid contact with poisonous plants and stinging creatures. Never let kids run barefoot in the woods, as this leaves the skin vulnerable to insect and snake bites, ticks, poison oak, and the general hazard of stepping on sharp objects. Always protect yourself and your children against the sun with sunscreen, hats and sunglasses, keeping in mind that harmful rays can penetrate even thick cloud covers.