We wait so long for the summer to arrive, but it?s not without its dangers. Keep kids safe and maximize your outdoor playtime with these tips.
Strong Sun

The UV Index is a measure of the intensity of the sun?s rays. Environment Canada (weather.gc.ca) forecasts the highest level of UV for the day, which you can expect around midday. If the UV Index is between three and five, simply slather on the sunscreen and head outdoors. But if the forecasted UV Index for the day is six or higher, plan your outdoor activities for before 11 a.m. or after 4 p.m., as the sun will be less intense. Check The Weather Network (theweathernetwork.com or download the app) for current readings, and be especially careful when the UV Index is eight or higher, as skin can burn very quickly. (Though rare in Canada, a UV Index of 11 or higher can cause skin to burn within minutes!) ?Young kids can get bad sunburns before you even realize there?s a problem,? says Michael Dickinson, a paediatrician in Miramichi, NB. Bad Air

The Air Quality Health Index tells us how much pollution is outside on a scale of one to 10, and is more likely to affect people in large cities, near industry or close to areas prone to forest fires. When pollution is high?at seven or above?young kids and people with asthma or heart conditions should limit strenuous outdoor activity, according to Health Canada. That doesn?t mean you can?t go outside at all?just use Environment Canada?s hourly air quality readings and next-day fore...