As the school year comes to a close and summer is quickly approaching, IUSD would like to take this opportunity to share important water, sun, and bike safety reminders for families from the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA), the American Academy of Pediatrics, and from the City of Irvine.
Summer, for most, means many long days enjoying summertime activities, like swimming at the pool or beach and biking outside. We encourage our families to have fun in the sun, while also remembering to stay safe.
ABCs of Water Safety
Remember the ABC’s of water safety:
- A – Active Adult Supervision.
- B – Barriers to prevent toddlers and children from falling into the pool.
- C – Classes, so children know how to swim is important. Do not rely on swimming aids for safety.
Click on the links below for more information about the ABC’s of water safety
English, Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Farsi
Visit the OCFA drowning prevention webpage for more tips and videos.
Sun Safety
During the summer months, UVA and UVB rays are at their peak intensity, which can lead to painful sunburns that have long-term, damaging effects on the skin. Each day, it is important to apply sunscreen that is at least SPF 15 or higher. One way to avoid direct sunlight exposure is to seek shade whenever it may be available. When there is not shade in sight, wear sunscreen and reapply every two hours. In addition, wearing protective clothing, sunglasses, and hats can help prevent sun damage.
Information provided by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Bike Safety
- For protection, always wear a helmet that has been approved by the American National Standards Institute.
- Ride a bike that is in good working condition and properly fit to size.
- Obey all traffic signs and signals and ride predictably. Stay away from cars, abide by traffic, and communicate intentions to others with clear signals or gestures.
- Always carry a lock to secure a bike once arrived at the destination.
- Register bikes with the Irvine Police Department, which will help to recover it in the event of theft.
Visit the City of Irvine’s website for more Bike Safety Tips. In addition, The Irvine Police Department has created a traffic safety video with important tips for pedestrians, bicyclists and drivers in and around school zones, driveways and crosswalks.
IUSD wishes our families a fun and safe summer!