Summer Baby Basics

Summertime means picnics and camping for many families. Be sure when cooking outdoors that your youngster is far away from the grill. Keep all grilling accessories (charcoal, lighter fluid, propane, and so on) well out of the reach of children—either in a locked utility shed or on a high shelf in the garage.

Microorganisms grow faster in the warm summer months (food-borne bacteria grow fastest at temperatures from 90 to 110 degrees F); bacteria also need moisture to flourish, and summer weather is often hot and humid. To avoid exposing you and your children to these harmful bacteria, be sure to cook meat to the proper temperature, properly chill food in a cooler or car fridge, wash your child's hands and cooking surfaces often, don't cross contaminate (wrap up raw meat in coolers with several zippered plastic bags to prevent juices from leaking, and wash cooking utensils thoroughly), and throw away leftovers or chill them immediately.

During the summer months as you find yourself busy working in the yard, taking family trips, or firing up the grill, be especially aware of your child and her environment and surroundings. Extra caution now can help ensure that you and your child will have a safe, enjoyable summer.