Summer Safety with Bluestem Health

Written By Christine Weeks

Summer is here, and it’s time for sunny adventures, pool days, and bike rides on Lincoln’s trails. Before you head outside, here are a few simple safety
tips to help you and your family stay safe all
summer long.

Helmet Safety

  • Always wear a helmet when riding a bike, scooter, or skateboard. Even short rides near home can lead to accidents, so helmets should be worn every time.

  • Make sure the helmet fits snugly—not too tight, not too loose. You should be able to fit two fingers between the strap and your chin.

  • Look for helmets that meet Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) safety standards.

  • Let kids choose their own helmet colors or decorate with stickers to make it their own.

Swimming Safety

  • Never swim alone—always have an adult watching.
    Supervising adults should avoid distractions like texting or reading.

  • Learn how to swim, and stay away from pool drains and suction outlets.

  • Make sure backyard pools have fences on all four sides that are at least four-feet tall.

  • Use self-closing gates and consider pool alarms for extra safety.

  • Adults should learn CPR and keep a phone nearby in case of emergencies.

Sun Safety

  • Apply sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) 15 to 30 minutes before going outside.

  • Choose broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays.

  • Reapply every two hours, or after swimming and drying off.

  • Try to stay in the shade during peak sun hours: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

  • Wear clothing, hats, and sunglasses with UV protection.

Bluestem Health wants you and your family to stay safe and healthy this summer. Our board-certified pediatricians, Erica Peterson, MD, MPH, and Humaira Qasimyar, MD, serve the Lincoln community—caring for families through every season. Whether it’s bike rides, pool days, or outdoor adventures, summer is a great time to stay active—but also a time to stay safe with the right care and guidance.

We know how important it is to have a trusted family doctor or pediatrician. Finding the right provider can feel overwhelming, but Bluestem Health is here to help. Our Lincoln clinics offer integrated care for the whole family—so you
can get the support you need, all in one place.

Learn more at
bluestemlincoln.com.

Christine Weeks
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