It is already time to get kids ready for summer camp, advises a U.S. doctor to parents.

Parents who prepare their children for camp will help their children make the most out of the experience, whether it's a day camp or a long-term stay, says Dr. Patricia Hametz, director of the Injury and Violence Prevention Center at New York's NewYork-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital.

Hametz says in a statement, "Parents should ask camp organizers basic questions about what plans they have in place to keep kids safe, handle medical emergencies and deal with routine health needs."

Parents need to see camp health guidelines and should make sure the staff has information about any of their children's medical conditions, and of course, the child's physician's name, numbers and date of last visit.

Hametz also advises parents to have their child get a doctor's examination and update vaccinations, tell children to drink plenty of water and to steer clear of sugary and carbonated drinks, pack loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in light colors and sunblock, SPF 30 or greater and explain to their child how to stay safe in the water, including staying away if no lifeguard is on duty and obeying the camp rules. (With Inputs from Agencies).