May 7, 09 | Posted by: Sharyl Paley, M.D.

Safety – Summer is finally here

We are finally starting to see some warmer days which means summer is not far away.  It does not take 70 degree temperatures for native Milwaukeeans to get outside to play.  As you are getting out your bikes, rollerblades, ripsticks, and skateboards remember all the safety gear to wear with it.

Each year as the weather starts to get warmer the office and emergency rooms get filled up with injuries.  A little preparation and prevention can go a long way.  Anytime you or your child gets on a bike don’t forget your helmet.  People don’t plan to fall off of their bikes but accidents do happen.  Even just riding around the block one must wear their helmet.  It is important as the parent to let your child know that if their helmet is not on they do not ride their bike.  Also remember to check their helmet from last year and make sure it fits.  Kids are growing and they easily outgrow their helmets.  If you are not sure if it fits check at a bike store and they will be able to fit test it.

We also offer a safety program through our office called That’s Using Your Head (TUYH).  This is a program in case an emergency does happen that important contact information is listed in your child’s helmet.  School aged children are often riding without a parent.  In case of an accident you want information available so emergency personnel can contact you.  Please feel free to call our office to ask about more details and how to obtain your stickers.

Remember, helmets are for anything that moves.  Even if your child is just using their skateboard or skooter in the driveway they can hurt themselves.  While we can’t prevent all injuries it is important to try to prevent what we can.  Head injuries can have lasting effects and a helmet can prevent a more serious outcome.

Finally, if your child was in an accident replace their helmet with a new one!

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