Doctor Reveals 1 Thing Kids Should 'Never' Do During Summer

Summer is the time for kids to have fun and make life-lasting memories. School is out, and the possibilities for good times seem endless.

However, while children are usually carefree, there are plenty of things their parents need to be concerned about when they're out playing, says Dr. Arun Chopra. 

Chopra, a pediatric critical care physician, provided the New York Post with six safety tips for children this summer. The advice was related to staying cool, practicing water safety, avoiding bug bites and other important topics.

The one specific thing that Chopra said he "never let my kids do" is ride a bicycle, scooter, skateboard, ATV or any other device with wheels without the protection of a helmet.

"Head trauma is probably the most preventable serious injury that kids can get while playing," the doctor explained. "It really is an absolute requirement that they wear a helmet at all times."

Chopra added that he is concerned about brain damage and major head injuries, which is why he cautioned parents to be very wary of letting their kids ride one particular recreational vehicle.

"That’s why I would be particularly cautious with ATVs. While they can be a lot of fun, they present significant risks," Chopra said. "First, they can go fast. Younger children can get thrown very easily, so helmets and seatbelts are imperative.

"They’re also heavy and can crush a child if they roll over. Parents need to confirm that the machine is the right size and that operators know what they’re doing. Alcohol should not be involved."

According to the Consumer Federation of America, there were 420 ATV fatalities in 2024. A large number--288 to be exact--of those deaths were suffered by the driver, with the passenger being killed 43 times and a bystander dying on three occasions.

Eighty-six ATV fatalities fall under the "unknown" or "other" categories. In total, 65 people between the ages of 0-15 were killed in ATV accidents, per the same report.

source https://www.mensjournal.com/news/doctor-reveals-1-thing-kids-should-never-do-during-summer