En Espaņol Enjoy the Summer Safely Along with summer come a number of activities and situations that could pose safety risks for young children. Babies and young children are especially vulnerable and parents or caregivers must be particularly diligent about protecting them. However, being educated about these risks and how to avoid them will help ensure that you and your kids enjoy a safe, healthy and happy summer season. In the Sun For babies under six months - Avoid sun exposure. The best ways to prevent sunburn are to dress infants in lightweight long pants, long-sleeved shirts and brimmed hats. Parents can also apply a minimal amount of sunscreen to small areas, such as the infant's face and the back of the hands. For young children - Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outside, and use sunscreen even on cloudy days. The SPF should be at least 15 In the Water Never leave children alone in or near the water, even for a moment! Pool owners should install a fence around their pool and make sure pool gates self-close and self-latch at a height children can't reach. Keep rescue equipment (a shepherd's hook - a long pole with a hook on the end - and life preserver) and a portable telephone near the pool. Avoid inflatable swimming aids such as "floaties." They are not a substitute for approved life vests and can give children a false sense of security. The American Academy of Pediatrics says children are not developmentally ready for formal swimming lessons until after their fourth birthday. The AAP suggests adult stay within an arm's length providing "touch" supervision whenever infants and toddlers are in or around water. The Red Cross says the best thing anyone can do to stay safe in and around the water is to learn to swim--this includes adults and children. To enroll in swim course, contact your local Red Cross chapter. First 5 LA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the early development of all children in Los Angeles County through a variety of programs addressing preschool, health insurance, safety and parent education. Learn more by visiting www.SafeKidsLA.org or by calling 888-FIRST-5-LA (1-888-347-7855).