In Southeast Louisiana, tailgates, and other outdoor celebrations, are often family affairs that include children of all ages.
Dr. Tiffany L. Davis, Primary Care Physician at Ochsner Health Center – O’Neal, offers some advice for keeping your little fans safe this season, no matter what the activity may be.
-Protect children from too much sun exposure.
-Not only can too much sun make children sick, but it can cause permanent skin damage, and boost their risk for skin cancer later in life. When children are outdoors for any activity, including tailgating, Dr. Davis recommends applying at least an SPF 30, or higher, sunscreen with broad spectrum UVA and UVB coverage to kids six months and older, throughout the day. Begin applying 30 minutes before going outdoors, and reapply as your child sweats.
-Set up your child’s play area under a tent, or in the shade.
-Dress children in comfortable clothes, complete with team hat and sunglasses.
-Keep children hydrated.
-Bring plenty of water. Children can be especially sensitive to the heat. If they are running and playing, they will need extra hydration to replenish lost fluids.
-Bring child-friendly snacks and foods that can be enjoyed throughout the day, without the risk of spoiling. Follow all food safety guidelines for serving food outdoors.
-As alcohol is often present at tailgate parties, Dr. Davis suggests that a sober adult supervise the children at all times. Do NOT drink and drive at any time.
-Avoid getting lost. With game day festivities drawing thousands, it only takes a second for children to become lost in a crowd.
-Have family- and kid-friendly activities in your tailgate area to keep your child occupied, and reduce their chances of wandering off.
-In advance, plan a designated meeting place, in case a child does become lost.
-Remember what your child is wearing. Dress your child in something unique – a special hat or arm band – so that it is easier to spot them among other fans.
-When navigating game day traffic on foot, keep children close, and make sure they know the rules for safely crossing streets.
-Allow plenty of time to enter so that children do not feel rushed or crowded on the stairs.
-Prepare your child for the noise level. Bring foam or wax earplugs, or noise-cancelling headphones for small children to help reduce noise.
-Take time beforehand to explain the overall feel of a football game to children so that mom, dad, and child can enjoy the experience together.