Survivor: Keeping Healthy in the Great Outdoors

Hiking, camping and other outdoor activities can help your children have fun while learning about nature. As your family prepares for time in the Great Outdoors, consider a few precautions to keep everyone happy, healthy and safe from harm.

The ideal nature outing begins with a plan. Think about concerns that relate to the specific location and the time of year of the outing, and prepare accordingly. Pack a first-aid kit with bandages, anti-bacterial cream, over-the-counter medication and any prescription medications. Dress your family in layers that can be added or removed depending on the weather, and bring hats, gloves and scarves to insulate heat and protect the skin from cold wind. Don’t forget sunscreen!

While outside, be mindful of plants that can have negative effects—poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac can all cause reactions if they come into contact with skin. Teach your family how to recognize these pesky plants. Stay away from plants with vine-like shapes and three tear-shaped, smooth leaves.

Remember to protect against insects, such as mosquitoes, ticks and chiggers, by wearing bug spray containing DEET and long sleeves. Keep itch-relieving ointment on hand to treat any mosquito bites, and always check for ticks after returning indoors.

“Going outside is a great way for your family to spend time together and get exercise,” says Mary Ann Empson, RN, BSN, Answer Line nurse at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. “Being prepared and keeping safety in mind makes for a healthful and fun experience outdoors.”