Health Tip: Make Kids Safe in the Sandbox

Kids love to have fun in the sand, but parents should take steps to make sure that sandboxes aren't dirty or contaminated and potentially harmful to kids.

The American Academy of Pediatrics offers this advice for keeping sandboxes safe:

• Always keep the sandbox covered when not in use to repel insects and animals.
• If the sand is wet, allow it to thoroughly dry before covering to prevent the growth of bacteria.
• Frequently rake the sandbox to get rid of debris.
• Don't let pets play in the sandbox. They may confuse it with a litter box.