Open Airways: Summer Asthma Tips For Families

As summer begins, Open Airways is reminding families that with consistent care, proper planning and continued medication use, children with asthma can safely enjoy camps, vacations, sports and outdoor activities all season long.

A spokesperson said, “As the school year winds down and summer fun begins, families are eager to embrace sunshine, travel, and outdoor play. But for children with asthma, the summer season brings unique challenges. The good news? With the right preparation, kids with asthma can enjoy a full, active and carefree summer.

“One of the most important things to remember is that asthma doesn’t take a vacation – it is a year-round condition. Even when symptoms seem to improve in warm weather, underlying inflammation in the airways can still be present. Summer triggers—like pollen, humidity, campfires, or even chlorine from pools—can quietly stir up trouble.

“It can be tempting to ease off daily routines during summer break, but asthma medications should be continued exactly as prescribed. Preventer medications work best when taken consistently, even when your child feels well. Skipping doses can lead to flare-ups that disrupt summer fun.

“Keep inhalers handy—whether at the beach, camp, or at a friend’s house —and make sure they are not left in hot cars, where heat can affect their effectiveness.

“Asthma should never hold a child back. With proper management, children with asthma should be able to participate in any activity, from swimming and running to sports and camp games.

“The key is preparation:

• Use your preventer medication every day, as prescribed
• Use reliever medication [or Symbicort if over 12 years old] before exercise if prescribed
• Ensure coaches, counsellors, and supervisors know about your child’s asthma
• Watch for early warning signs like coughing or shortness of breath

“With the right plan, kids can run, play, and explore just like everyone else.

“Sending your child to camp can feel like a big step—but a little planning goes a long way.

• Share an asthma action plan with camp staff
• Pack extra medication [inhalers, spacers, allergy meds if needed]
• Label everything clearly with your child’s name
• Teach your child to self-manage, if age-appropriate
• Discuss triggers like smoke, dust, pollen, grass or mould with counsellors

“A well-informed camp team helps ensure your child stays safe while having fun this summer.

“Family vacations are about making memories—not managing emergencies.

• Pack all medications in your carry-on, not checked luggage
• Bring a copy of prescriptions and your child’s asthma plan
• Check the air quality and pollen levels at your destination
• Avoid rooms with strong odours, smoke, or mould
• Keep routines consistent—even across time zones

If traveling abroad, research where to access medical care just in case.

“As summer winds down, it’s time to shift gears and get ready for the classroom again.

• Schedule a check-up with your child’s healthcare provider
• Update your child’s asthma action plan
• Replace expired medications and inhalers
• Inform teachers and school staff about your child’s condition
• Add your child to the Bermuda Student Asthma Registry
• Make sure your child knows where their inhaler is at all times

“Starting the school year prepared can help prevent early flare-ups and missed days.

“Summer should be a season of fun and freedom, not fear. With consistent care, open communication, and a little planning, children with asthma can enjoy every campfire, cannonball, and family adventure that comes their way.

“If you have any questions or want a free consult, please call Open Airways at 536-6060 or email us at educ@openairways.com – Because every child deserves a summer full of deep breaths and big memories.”

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