School's Out, Safety's In: Summer Safety Tips for Students and Families

When the final school bell rings, students across Ohio breathe a well-earned sigh of relief. Summer break is a time to recharge, explore, and enjoy a little extra freedom, but safety doesn't take a vacation.
At the Ohio Council of Community Schools (OCCS), we believe that keeping students safe doesn’t stop at the classroom door. Whether students attend brick-and-mortar charter schools or learn from home through virtual academies, summer remains an important season for maintaining health, wellness, and protection.
Below, we’ve gathered some practical tips and reminders to help families make the most of summer safely.

Stay Cool, Stay Safe: Outdoor Play and Sun Protection
Warmer weather means more time outside, but high temperatures and intense UV rays can pose serious health risks.

• Hydration is key. Keep water bottles on hand, especially during sports or outdoor play.
• Protect yourself from the sun. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), and don’t forget ears, neck, and the tops of feet.
• Be heat smart. Know the signs of heat exhaustion: dizziness, nausea, and excessive sweating. Encourage regular breaks in the shade.

Digital Safety in the Downtime
Summer often means more screen time, especially for students in virtual schools. While technology connects us, it also opens doors to risks if boundaries aren’t set.

• Set Limits on screen time and app usage. Use parental controls or screen monitoring apps if needed.
• Talk about cyber safety. Encourage your child to think before they click, avoid talking to strangers online, and always report anything that feels uncomfortable.
• Be mindful of online bullying. Know the signs—withdrawal, anxiety, or secretive behavior—and offer a safe space for your child to talk.

Beat the Summer Slide Safely
Educational progress doesn’t have to stop in June. Whether it’s an online book club, a library reading challenge, or hands-on science experiments at home, there are plenty of fun ways to keep students learning over the break.
If your child is participating in online learning this summer:

• Make sure the software is up to date and passwords are protected.
• Monitor usage in shared spaces, such as the kitchen or living room.
• Encourage brain breaks and physical activity between lessons.

Mental Health Is a Safety Issue, Too
The slower pace of summer can be relaxing for some students, but isolating for others. Without the structure and support of school, mental health struggles can sometimes go unnoticed.
Here’s how families can help:

• Stick to a loose but consistent routine. Sleep, meals, and physical activity all impact mental health.
• Talk openly about feelings and emotions.
• Reach out for support early if you notice prolonged sadness, irritability, or withdrawal.

Safe Travels & Family Fun
Whether you’re visiting a local festival or heading out on a road trip, safety on the go is just as important as at home.

• Never leave children or pets in hot vehicles—even for a minute.
• Buckle up every time. Even on short drives.
• Teach kids to stay close in crowds and agree on a meeting spot if you get separated.

Resources for a Safer Summer
Here are a few trusted tools to help you stay informed and prepared:

• Safe Kids Worldwide – Tips for water, sports, heat, and more.
• StopBullying.gov – Advice for parents and students on online safety.
• Mental Health America – Mental wellness resources.
• Common Sense Media – Reviews and advice for navigating tech and social media.
• CDC Summer Safety – Guidance for families on summer health and injury prevention.