Summer vacation is already well underway, and with it comes exciting activities, family vacations, summer camp, sports, swimming… you name it! While the heat brings lots of fun and a much needed rest from the school year’s everyday routine, it is very important not to neglect hand hygiene. It might seem like the chances of catching the flu or transferring germs are lower during the summer, but that is not the case. Reminding children about the importance of handwashing and sanitizing will help ensure a fun and healthy summer for the whole family.
Some of the best trips are by car. A distant destination keeps the whole family on their toes and stops for tasty meals make the ride that much fun. It might be easy to forget, but making sure to wash hands before and after a meal drastically reduces the transfer of germs. Your car or the airplane might seem clean, but germs can linger on surfaces. Therefore, taking an extra few minutes to follow a proper handwashing routine can go a long way in making sure everyone is ready to enjoy all summer has to offer.
The amount of time spent on hand hygiene is as important as the method used. This includes following proper hand care steps as well as making sure hands are thoroughly dry after washing. Wet hands have been shown to transfer germs much more readily than dry hands or hands not washed at all. Therefore, make the time by the sink worth it. Take time by singing happy birthday in your head while washing and a few extra seconds to make sure hands are nice and dry before hitting the road again!
Children are often reminded about handwashing while at school, but camp exposes them to the same amount of germs with less emphasis on handwashing. Make sure to keep your family safe, healthy, and happy at home, on vacation, or at camp by following some of these quick tips.
Wash hands:
- before and after eating
- after using the restroom
- after using a keyboard, public phone, or any shared equipment
- after planned activities (including sports)
- after riding a bus to a field trip or home at the end of the day
- after visiting the nurse’s office
Keepings hands clean means keeping you healthy. This year, make sure everyone is getting the best summer has to offer by reminding your family of the importance of effective handwashing to ensure the reduction of germs all year long.
Click here to download our Handwashing Method in 10 Easy Steps
