No more pencils, no more books the summer vacation season is in full swing for kids. Unfortunately, it’s also the season of the emergency room, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Summer activities such as bicycling, swimming and skating have potential for disaster if parents don’t implement safety measures on their kids. In order to minimize injuries, the Pediatrics staff at Chilton Memorial Hospital is taking a proactive approach to summer safety. The team wants to remind the community of Ten Summertime Tips to Keep Children Safe. “Parents need to realize that there are many summer-related hazards that can easily be avoided,” said Philip Devadan, MD. “We pediatricians are passionate about keeping children as healthy as possible. This list offers valuable tips and reminds parents to keep a vigilant eye on their kids this summer.” 1. Make sure children wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket at all times on a boat. 2. Protect children from excessive exposure to the sun. Use sunscreen with a rating of SPF 15 or higher. Apply at least 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours. 3. Never leave children unsupervised near a pool. 4. Keep children away from lawn mowers in use. Never let them ride on the mower. 5. Keep hazardous items, such as matches, lighter fluid, charcoal and pool chemicals away from children. 6. Make sure children who are playing outside in the heat, drink plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice. 7. Keep children away from trampolines. 8. Children should always wear a helmet and pads when skating, riding a bike, scooter or skateboard. 9. Teach your children not to approach a dog they don’t know. 10. Even good swimmers need buddies - make sure your children know not to swim alone. The Pediatric Emergency Department at Chilton Memorial Hospital wants you to have a safe summer. In case of emergency, Chilton Memorial Hospital Pediatricians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you need emergency care, the dedicated Pediatric Emergency area is a kid friendly environment equipped with child sized equipment and supplies. Chilton Memorial Hospital is a fully accredited, 256-bed, acute-care, community hospital. It is located at 97 West Parkway in Pompton Plains, NJ 07444.