Getting Ready For Vacation

I’m going to be heading out soon for my vacation to Hershey Park and Lancaster, PA. Of course, I’m looking forward to it, but I’m also dreading the amount of work I’m going to need to do just to get ready!

Whether you’re flying or driving, being prepared will make the vacation that much smoother. Here are some tips to keep in mind when travelling with kids this summer:

- Be ready for an emergency – If you or your children take prescription medication, ask your doctor for an extra prescription in case your medication is lost with your luggage. Whether you’re going to grandmas or a resort, call ahead and get the name of a local pediatrician.

- Pack a First Aid kit – Having a few essentials in case someone gets hurt or sick along the way will make a big difference. A few basics such as a thermometer, a few Band-Aids, some Neosporin to clean and disinfect cuts and scrapes, children’s ibuprofen and antihistamine will get you through minor emergencies.

- Secure your car seat – Double check that your car seat is installed properly. Studies show that approximately 80 percent of car seats are installed or used improperly. Find a car seat safety clinic in your area and have someone who is certified to install car seats take a look. Place a bright neon sticker on the side of the seat with your child’s information and an emergency contact number so, if you are rendered unconscious in an accident, first responders can immediately help your child.

- Don’t forget about baby proofing – If you have a baby or toddler, take along a few child safety essentials – wire ties to secure lamp cords to tables, outlet plugs and a retractable gate to keep little hands away from Grandma’s china and white furniture!

- Safeguard the house – Let a neighbor know that you will be away and stop mail and newspaper delivery. Purchase timers for light switches so the house isn’t constantly dark. For added protection while you and your family are gone, consider a monitored home security system—which can even send alerts to your PDA or smart phone in the case of a potential burglary or fire.
 

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