How Safe Is Your Backyard?
Summer is not over yet so there is much more backyard fun to be had, however it is important to think about the safety of your backyard play equipment.
Some simple tips can keep your children safe while they enjoy the simple pleasures of playing in the outdoors!
• Cover areas under and around the equipment with shock-absorbing material, such as sand, rubber or mulch, nine to 12 inches deep
• Cover all protruding bolts
• Wear proper footwear-don’t go barefoot, children could get a splinter, cut or even burned by hot surfaces
• Do not let children wear loose clothing and stringed items placed around the neck that can catch on playground equipment and strangle children
• Make sure all swing sets are securely anchored, avoid sloping areas – level ground helps prevent playground equipment from tipping over
By following these playground precautions and supervising your children at play this will reduce the risk of injury. Be sure to also teach your children the importance of using the equipment properly and how to be safe while having fun.