Pool days, hot dogs and backyard camping under the stars. Summer is coming, and with it, all the glorious reminders of why it’s our favorite season. We know it doesn't seem like it, but, yes, it really is almost summer. In these uncertain times, we need to be prepared for whatever May through August brings (although, give us a break, 2020…). Here are the five best summer safety tips, from building your own first aid kit to wearing sunscreen under your face mask.

1. Make Sure You Have Masks for the Whole Family

Due to the ongoing coronavirus crisis, the CDC recommends wearing a cloth or disposable mask whenever you go in public, and especially in areas where social distancing is difficult to maintain. That includes grocery stores, pharmacies and other high-traffic areas. And don’t forget kid-favorite spots like the neighborhood park. There are plenty of ways to purchase one online (we love these Reformation, Heather Taylor Home and Abacaxi ones), or you can make your own with this quick tutorial. All you need is a scarf, handkerchief or other small piece of fabric and two hair ties.

2. Build Your Own First Aid Kit

Or BYOFAK, for short. This summer, be prepared for whatever life throws your way by stocking up on the essentials. You’ll need some bandages, antibacterial ointment, gauze, gloves, tweezers, aloe vera gel, safety pins, and an OTC antihistamine for allergic reactions. This May through September, BAND-AID® Brand of First Aid Products is giving away free first aid bags (you can choose between two designs) with any purchase of three select first aid products from Target, like BAND-AID® Brand SKIN-FLEX® Bandages, NEOSPORIN® + Pain, Itch, Scar and BAND-AID® Brand Decorative Bandages. Found only at Target, this offer is while supplies last, so customize your new bag before your kids’ next “ouch.”

3. Don’t Forget the Sunscreen

But just because you and your kids are wearing masks doesn’t mean you need to forgo the sunblock, especially since the sun is stronger in the summer. Harmful UVA and UVB rays can still penetrate through certain fabrics that aren’t of the fancy outdoor UFP variety. The rule of thumb, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, is to hold the fabric up to the sun. If you can see light through it, then you should definitely wear a layer of sunscreen underneath your clothes.

4. Take It Easy (Especially When Wearing a Mask)

Avoid heat exhaustion and heat stroke that can happen in summer, especially since your breathing might be hampered if you are wearing a face mask. Try to exercise only in the morning or evening when it’s coolest, drink lots of water, and make sure your children aren’t overdoing it when they’re running around in the backyard or playing outside. Also, learn the symptoms of heat exhaustion so you can spot it quickly and take the appropriate action.

5. Make Good Hygiene a Habit

We know, we know: You’re washing your hands raw. Make sure your youngins’ are also practicing proper hygiene. That means after the playground, park, or any time you’re out and about. To instill the habit in kids, make it more like playtime. Each day, pick a new song that they have to sing as they wash. Use fun soaps like a glow-in-the-dark kind that will appear neon blue under a mini UV flashlight. We also recommend keeping a bottle of sanitizer by the front door as a reminder, along with one in your purse, car and that brand-new first aid kit.

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