First 5 San Bernardino, Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital promote accident prevention with summer safety demos

First 5 San Bernardino and Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital spotlight summer safety with hands-on demos to prevent heatstroke, drowning and injury.

Summer is in full swing, and that means more time in the sun, by the pool and on the go. Last week, First 5 San Bernardino teamed up with Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital for poolside demos reminding families how to keep their little ones safe this season.

As part of First 5 San Bernardino’s Kid Safe Summer campaign, experts walked viewers through key safety tips ahead of the Fourth of July — one of the most active holidays for water play and family travel. From the ABCs of water safety to real-time heat demonstrations and proper car seat installations, the team shared timely reminders parents and caregivers of children aged 0-5 should know all summer long.

Did you know formal swim lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by 88 percent for kids aged 1–4? Or that nearly half of all car seats are installed incorrectly? These facts are potentially lifesaving.

Karen Scott, executive director of First 5 San Bernardino, stressed the importance of active supervision, barriers around pools and enrolling in both swim lessons and CPR classes. “Knowing how to keep your child safe in the summer months can save lives,” she said.

A heat demonstration showcased a life-sized thermometer revealing just how quickly temperatures can soar in a parked vehicle even with the windows cracked.

“It’s a powerful reminder to never, ever leave your child in a hot car,” said Scott. “It takes only minutes for the temperature to reach deadly levels.”

Car seat safety was also an important topic, with Michelle Parker from Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital providing a step-by-step guide on proper rear- and front-facing car seat installation. Viewers learned how to buckle their child in correctly and ensure the seat doesn’t move more than one inch.

The event received media coverage on Spectrum News, KNBC 4 and newspapers across the Inland Empire. Check out this online article in the San Bernardino Sun.

Watch the special event wrap-up video, featuring interviews with First 5 San Bernardino and Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.

Whether you’re heading to the pool, the park or just around the block, summer safety starts with awareness and preparation. Visit First5SanBernardino.org to explore resources such as swim classes, CPR training and other tips. Let’s keep this a safe and sunny summer for all!

Additional County Update News – July 10, 2025