Exploring the great outdoors, making memories, and growing up with a strong connection to nature is important, but so is having the proper outdoor safety gear. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), every 4 seconds, a child is treated for an injury in an emergency department. By investing in the right gear, you can significantly reduce the risk of injury for your little ones.
Top 10 Outdoor Safety Gear Essentials for Kids
By investing in the right gear, you can significantly reduce the risk of injury for your little ones. In this article, we’ll discuss the top 10 outdoor safety gear essentials for kids and provide helpful tips for parents like you.
Helmets
Let’s start with protecting their noggins. Helmets are a must-have for any outdoor activity that poses a risk of head injury. These include biking, skateboarding, rollerblading, and even scootering.
Choose a helmet that meets the safety standards of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and ensure it fits properly, covering their forehead and sitting level on their head. Browse helmets for children ages 3-8 here.
Knee and Elbow Pads
In the event of a spill, give them some extra cushion. Just like helmets, knee and elbow pads protect your child from injuries during activities like biking, skateboarding, and rollerblading.
They offer additional cushioning to absorb the impact of falls, preventing bruises and scrapes. Choose adjustable pads that fit securely and comfortably around your child’s knees and elbows. Explore knee and elbow pads for sale here.
Proper Footwear
Get their stride right. Whether it’s hiking, climbing, or simply playing at the park, choosing the right footwear for your child is crucial. Shoes with sturdy soles and good ankle support will help prevent slips, trips, and falls.
Additionally, closed-toe shoes can protect their feet from cuts and scrapes during outdoor play.
Sun Protection
Keep them from getting burned. Sunburns are not only painful but can also increase the risk of skin cancer later in life. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that children wear broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, as well as sun-protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses (source: AAD).
Life Jackets
Keep them afloat and safe. If your child is engaging in water-based activities such as swimming, boating, or paddleboarding, a life jacket is essential. Choose a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket that fits snugly and is designed for their weight and activity (source: USCG).
Bug Repellent
Keep bug bites at bay. Bug bites can not only be itchy and annoying but can also transmit diseases like Lyme disease and West Nile virus. You can choose a bug repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus, and follow the instructions carefully.
Check out our guide on Off! Botanicals if you’d like to avoid harsher chemicals like DEET. Additionally, consider dressing your child in light-colored, long-sleeved clothing and pants to minimize their exposure to bugs.
First Aid Kit
Be prepared for the unexpected. No matter how careful you are, accidents can happen. A well-stocked first aid station can help you quickly treat minor injuries like cuts, scrapes, and blisters. Include bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and pain relievers in your kit.
Flashlights
Shine a little light on safety. Flashlightscan come in handy during outdoor adventures, especially if you’re camping or hiking. A flashlight can help you find your way in the dark, while a whistle can help you signal for help if you get lost or separated from your group.
I keep this small magnetic flashlight in my glove box to help with looking in dark areas of my car and and this as an emergency light in the cargo area.
Reflective Gear
Keep them visible and safe. If your child is playing outside at dusk or after dark, it’s important to make sure they are visible to others. Reflective gear, such as vests, armbands, or stickers, can help drivers see your child and prevent accidents.
Navigation Tools
Alwasy know where you’re going. If you’re hiking or exploring new terrain, it’s essential to have the right navigation tools on hand. A compass and a map of the area can help you stay on track and avoid getting lost. Additionally, consider bringing a GPS device or a smartphone with GPS capabilities as a backup.
Investing in the right outdoor safety gear can significantly reduce the risk of injuries and make outdoor adventures more enjoyable for you and your family. Remember to choose gear that meets safety standards and fits properly, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. By taking the time to prepare, you can set your children up to stay safe and protected while still having loads of fun in the great outdoors.
