Since summer is almost here everyone is ready to get out and enjoy outdoor activities. But for the younger set, summer holds dangers that can readily be avoided with precaution and consistency.

Be bold. With busy outdoor activities, keeping an eye on a quick toddler or a group of children can be made safer. Dress children in the same bright or unusual colors to stand out above the crowd. Always know what children are wearing in case they are separated and a description must be given. The adult or group leader should sport the same color. Make certain the children know what color the leader is wearing.

Equipment gets hot. Playground equipment, seat buckles, lawn chairs and similar items that are in the direct sun get hot. Be certain to test slides, swing chains and car seat buckles before a child's use to prevent burns. Keep a towel in the car to cover buckles from direct sun.

Standing water. Water that collects in pails, plant pots or similar containers is a hazard for younger children. Always empty pails after using them and keep containers turned upside down so rainwater doesn't collect. Make certain any water sources are carefully monitored. Turn off outdoor faucets when not supervised or secure with a buttoned spigot

First aid/CPR. Take a CPR course offered in the community. Develop a small first-aid kit and keep it in the stroller, car or bike sack. Useful items to include in the kit are hand disinfectant, adhesive bandages, aloe lotion, tweezers, antiseptic, pen and paper, copy of insurance card, rubber bands, wet wipes, extra sunscreen and insect repellent wipes.

Pool safety. Children should never have unsupervised access to any pool regardless of depth. The most important rule of pool safety is never turn your back. Be sure any pool area near the home is gated. Don't rely on floaties or other flotation devices for safety. A lifeguard at a pool or beach is not a substitute for a parent or child care supervisor's continual monitoring.

Drink it in. Dehydration is a common summer problem. Don't leave the house without water, and store extra water in a cooler in the car for longer trips. Some fruits such as melons are a good way to get extra liquid. Watch for dehydration headaches, common in children this time of year.

Sun protection. For babies 6 months and older, apply sunscreen daily before getting dressed. Reapply often and always after swimming. The lotion type of sunscreen with an SPF of 15 plus broad spectrum is best.

For a resistant toddler or preschooler, apply while standing in front of a mirror and use the sunscreen to make letters or shapes for the child to rub in. Remember the scalp, which can easily burn due to thin hair. The backs of knees and ears are the most usual burn spot because of missed lotion. Apply a lip balm with sunscreen protection, too.

Most of the sun's rays pass through clouds on overcast days, so use sun protection even on cloudy days. The chemicals in sunscreen can take up to 30 minutes to start working, so apply lotion on children before they go outside.

Choose tightly woven fabrics for children's clothing; they block the sun's rays better than loosely woven fabrics. Wear hats, too.

Little buggers. Check periodically for ant hills, bee hives and wasp nests and remove them when the child isn't watching.

Speaking of bugs. Bug sprays are now available in wipe form. Consult a physician about DEET and what ages the children can use the repellent. Very young toddlers should only use repellent with minimal amounts of DEET, less than 12 percent to 15 percent.

Street savvy. Even for those who live on a safe street, review sidewalk, alley and driveway safety knowledge with children. A child may visit a friend who lives on a busier street.

Recheck the size, fit and structure of all helmets, and make certain that when using any equipment with wheels, a helmet is properly worn. A helmet involved in a serious fall or accident should be replaced. Secure helmet straps and check fit throughout the summer, as children grow quickly.

Make sure the child knows his full name, phone number and address. If possible, have the child memorize the cell or work number of a parent or family friend, or at least a parent's first and last name.

This article was provided by College Nannies and Tutors, which will host an open house on Sat., June 13 at 3262 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Ste. 120, Westlake Village. Call (805) 4478777 for more information.