Summer Safety
Playbook

Summer brings new opportunities for outdoor fun—especially if you plan ahead! On this page, you’ll find a variety of resources to keep your kids healthy and safe all summer long.

Staying Safe in the Heat

While it’s usually cooler by the lakefront, temperatures can creep up on kids no matter where they live. Keep these sun-related tips in mind as you plan your outside time.

Overheating

Heat illness and dehydration can cause trouble for kids in the summer, so it’s important to drink plenty of water. Here’s how to prevent and treat heat-related issues.

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Sunburn

Kids can get a sunburn even on a cloudy day. Here’s how to protect their skin from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays and treat a sunburn.

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Vehicle safety

Kids should never be left alone in a car, but it’s especially dangerous during the summer. Here are some tips for staying safe around vehicles.

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Water Safety

Kids need careful monitoring around water — even a shallow kiddie pool. Here’s how to keep them safe in and around pools, lakes, rivers, and more.

Pool safety

Kids and caregivers need to understand and follow the rules of the pool. Get tips for keeping everyone safe.

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River and lake safety

Open water like lakes and rivers is very different from  a pool. Here are some pointers for staying safe in different types of water.

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Drowning prevention

Even strong swimmers are  at risk of drowning. Use these layers of protection for kids and teens in any body  of water.

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TIP FOR PARENTS

Drownings among young children are most common in home pools or hot tubs.

Staying Safe Outside

Kids and teens can find adventure around every corner in Chicago. Follow these tips to stay safe while having fun outside.

Chicago Summer Safety Program

This summer, the City of Chicago is implementing a new strategy that addresses community safety at a hyperlocal level. Explore the focus areas and tactics.

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Bug bites and stings

From spiders to mosquitoes to bees to ticks, it’s a (tiny) jungle out there! Protect your kids and learn how to treat various bites and stings.

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Bike, scooter and skateboard safety

Sharing the streets safely is important. Get the rules of the road and read up on the latest safety tips.

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Fireworks and fire safety

Help your entire family enjoy fire pits and fireworks responsibly. Read how to avoid burns and other injuries.

FIREWORKS

FIRE SAFETY

TIP FOR PARENTS

Kids age 11 and under can ride their bikes on the sidewalk.

Safety for Teens

Teenagers face unique challenges as they grow toward adulthood. Learn how to support the teens in your life this summer.

Condoms and sexual health

Condoms help protect teens from pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Learn more about talking to teens about sexual health, including consent, safety and protection.

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TIP FOR PARENTS

Free Narcan is available at all 22 Chicago Public Library branches.

Staying Safe at Home

Check out these other summer topics to keep kids and teens safe during summer months at home.

Online safety

Internet access comes with risks like inappropriate content, bullying, and online predators. Get tips on talking to your kids and teens about online safety.