Since my son was an infant, I’ve had a danger checklist I consult anytime he goes anywhere for a play date, sleepover or visit. Yes, I am obsessive when it comes to safety, but shouldn’t we all be to some extent when it involves our children? It’s summertime and our kids are all over the place hanging out. Before you send your child to day camp, a friend’s house or even overnight at grandma’s, make sure you know you’ve covered your safety bases. Here are mine:

1. Dogs: They are supposed to be our best friends, but not all dogs and kids mix well. Like a boyfriend in Las Vegas, even good dogs can do bad things. I will not send my child to anyone’s home that has an unsecured guard or attack breed dog. I don’t care if you say your pit bull is as sweet as Hello Kitty, to me he looks like a Great White Shark with fur. Teach your child how to behave around
strange dogs of all breeds such as do not approach or pet a dog unless you are with the owner and have permission. I found some great dog-handling advice on cleverparents.com.

2. Cars: Hold your small child’s hand in a parking lot or around traffic. Even though my son is 9, I make sure he is right next to me when are walking to and from our car. People back out of parking stalls and zigzag across parking rows without looking. I’ve taught my son not step behind the car when exiting the vehicle, but to wait by the door until an adult gets him. Make sure your child knows your rules when he is riding with other adults. Also, car seat and booster safety is a must. Do not let your under age 13 child ride in the front seat and make sure he is in the proper restraining system in the back seat according to age, weight and height. Go to chp.ca.gov for safety information from the California Highway Patrol.

3. Strangers: Always, always ask yourself, “Who is taking care of my child?” How much do you really know your child’s coach, neighbor, summer camp teacher or friend’s older sibling? Open your eyes and be careful. Mommy instinct is amazing. Listen to it and don’t be afraid to decline an invitation for your child if you don’t feel comfortable.

4. Water: A child can drown in a couple inches of water. Be aware of water features (pool, pond, stream, lake, etc.) when you are taking your child to someone’s house or somewhere to play. I remember when my son was a toddler we went to a friend of a friend’s house for a barbecue. I noticed right away this house had a huge man-made pond and waterfall. The first thing I asked was, “Do you have any more water features on your property?” I have a personal rule: If there is water around and I’m uncertain, I stay with my kid. Give your child swimming lessons as soon as possible.

5. Guns: Guns scare me. A recent story in the newspaper of a young girl being shot by a sibling who found an unsecured gun in the home is a horrifying example of why you must be obsessively careful. Do not be afraid to ask family members or anyone who your child may be visiting if they have guns and how they are secured. Teach your child what to do if he comes across a gun. I found a lot of good safety information at kidsandguns.org.

I know sometimes as parents we feel like we don’t want to be that “difficult” mommy. But in my books, my kid’s safety is much more important than anyone’s opinion of me.