Keeping children safe is a universal priority requiring attention and a thoughtful plan, particularly during summer months when kids are out of school. Here are key strategies to fostering independence while creating a safe environment for children to explore and interact with others this summer.

Indoor and Outdoor Play

Outdoors: Reiterate essential safety rules frequently, such as play boundaries, looking both ways before crossing the street and wearing helmets while biking or skateboarding.

GPS devices are valuable tools for keeping kids safe and providing parents peace of mind. Andrea Quezada of Mira Mesa keeps close tabs on her daughter through the SyncUP Kids Smartwatch which syncs with an app that only parents can access. “We control all the settings and assure it’s safe for her,” says Quezada. “We are also able to set [physical] boundaries, and it will alert us if she leaves them.”

Many GPS devices come with additional features, such as emergency contacts and 911 calling capabilities. Some also include real-time tracking information to quickly locate children if they become lost.

“We started using Apple AirTags to keep the children safe when we visit places like the Zoo, SeaWorld or

Legoland,” says Melina Amaguin of Mira Mesa. If a child becomes lost, Amaguin’s rule is to stay put until found. “You can also ping a sound [to the Airtag] to remind your kids that it’s time to go or that you’re on the way to find them,” she says.

At home: If you haven’t already, make home a safe space for kids and visitors by childproofing areas that pose potential risks. Take your child’s individual needs and ages into consideration. Tips from Rady Children’s Hospital include:

• Anchor furniture, bookshelves and TVs to the wall

• Use stove knob covers and oven locks

• Empty water from bathtubs after each use

• Install window guards to prevent windows from opening more than 4”

• Secure safety gates at the top and bottom of every staircase

Emotional and Social Safety

Teach children about personal boundaries and consent from a young age. Explain that it’s OK to say “no” to uncomfortable interactions and touches. By proactively addressing potential risks and empowering kids with knowledge, parents can help them navigate the world with confidence. A combination of vigilance and open communication is key to their wellbeing.

The San Diego County District Attorney’s (SDCDA) Office encourages parents to explain the concept of “stranger”: “Instead of telling children not to talk to strangers, teach them to be alert for threatening behaviors and situations… Keep in mind that certain kinds of strangers can assist children when they need help. Tell your kids to look for mothers with children, other kids, police in uniform or store clerks if they need help.” Practice “what if” scenarios in a non-frightening way so safety skills become second nature.

SDCDA also emphasizes that there is no substitution for attention and supervision when it comes to child

safety. More tips include 1) Never leave children unattended in public places or in a car, 2) Always be aware of surroundings, 3) Take kids into public restrooms with you, 4) Choose a secret word to use in an emergency. Read all their safety tips at www.sdcda.org/ content/preventing/protecting-childrenonline/child-safety-tips.pdf.

Emergency Preparedness

Having a plan for when a child gets lost significantly reduces stress and increases the chance of a quick reunion. Make sure children know their full name, your phone number, and home address so they can share it if needed. Summer is the perfect time to memorize these details.

Families who have children with special needs can enroll in the San Diego County Sheriff’s Take Me Home Registry free of charge. Visit  www.sdsheriff.gov/community/takeme-home-registry for information.

Pool and beach safety are crucial, especially during the summer months when water activities are in full swing. Enrolling children in swim lessons with certified instructors helps them build essential skills and confidence in the water, reducing the risk of accidents. Along with swimming skills, protecting kids from harmful sun exposure is key—apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and consider using sun-protective clothing. More tips to keep kids safe around water include:

• Secure pools. Use fences, alarms and covers to prevent unsupervised access.

• Designate a water watcher. Never leave children unattended around water, even for a moment. If you’re with a group or having a party and there is not a lifeguard on duty, make sure there is always a designated water watcher.

• Establish and follow pool rules Remind kids no running around a pool, no diving in shallow water and stay within sight of a trusted adult.

• Use Coast Guard-approved flotation devices or life jackets

• Keep hydrated and take breaks It’s important to prevent fatigue and overheating on warm days, even when swimming.

• Know CPR. Parents, caregivers and older kids: Find a local class and get certified!

Learn more about summer safety and San Diego beach regulations at www.sandiego.gov/leisure/ summersafety.

A Note About Online Safety

The most important ways to safeguard kids online are 1) Do not get them a phone with internet access until they’re teens; 2) Use parental controls, 3) Do not allow devices in bedrooms at night; 4) Stay involved and keep communication open—know what kids are doing online, 5) Teach kids not to share personal information, location or passwords, 6) Create a technology contract.

- Why and How to Delay Giving Kids a Phone: www.sandiegofamily.com/ parenting/what-age-should-kids-get-aphone

- How to Make a Family Technology Contract: www.sandiegofamily.com/ parenting/how-to-make-a-familydigital-citizenship-contract v

Amanda Cavallari is a freelance writer residing in San Diego.