Some of the best summer memories are made with visits from the little ones in your life. If children are making a trip to see you this summer, kid-proofing your medicine cabinet is key to ensure everyone stays safe.

While the Center for Disease Control (CDC) shares that older adults over the age of 65 and children are most at risk for heat related illnesses, Jamil Rizqalla, DO, FACEP, FAWM, director of the Emergency Department at Montefiore Nyack Hospital, says the heat can impact anyone.

It’s important that we check on our family, friends, and neighbors who are at high risk during heat waves and just hot weather in general,” Dr. Rizqalla says. “You never know how the heat will affect them.

Fireworks Safety
There’s no question that summer fireworks spark excitement. But before you pull up your lawn chair to enjoy the show, consider the risk: According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in 2024, 14,700 people were treated in the emergency room for firework related injuries, of which 37% of these injuries were burns.

Swim Safety
Nothing beats the heat like a dip in the pool; but before you dive in, make sure your water safety plan is in place.

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), drowning is the leading cause of death for children aged 1–4 and the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for kids aged 5–14. While these statistics are alarming, there are preventive measures families can take to make sure everyone is safe. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises the following: