Playground Safety Tips

With warmer weather across the country there is not better time to discuss playground safety with your children than now. Whether your children are playing at school, at the local park, or in your own back yard it is essential you teach them some practical safety rules.

Playgrounds can pose hidden hazards. It is a good rule of thumb to check out any area your child will be playing in. Keep in mind old playgrounds are sometimes not up to date. The wood may be old and weak. Rusty nails poking through the boards are another potential problem. Older playground equipment may be built on grass which does not offer the same cushion as sand or mulch for the child if they were to fall. Another common problem is with the chain linked swings. They have been known to pinch small fingers. Older equipment was not built with the same safety measures of today's equipment.

Key points to discuss with even the youngest of children:

The surfaces of metal and plastic slides can really heat up under the hot summer sun. Teach your child to check the surface of the slide before using it. Also point out the fact that cement (such as basketball courts) heats up as well. These hot surfaces can cause burns. Never go down a slide with your child and warn them about the potential risks if they go down with another child. As you go down the slide you are propelled forward. If a limb of your child gets caught up with yours or a friends they can get seriously injured.

Teach basic playground safety rules. Explain to your child the danger of walking behind the swings when someone is swinging. They should understand that the person swinging may not be able to see them and they can get hit by the swing or the child. Another potential playground hazard lays with the teeter totter. If one child jumps off without warning then the other child would slam to the ground. Educate your child on how both them and their friend can safely get off the teeter totter. Let them know the importance of communicating with one another. Keep in mind that newer teeter totters are designed with giant built in springs that are supposed to cushion the fall. Once again it is crucial, for you the parent, to check out the playground before your child utilizes it. You need to determine what the potential hazards are so you can properly educate your child.

Make sure your child keeps hydrated. It is not uncommon for children to lose track of time. Always having a water bottle on hand is a good idea.

Teach your child to never leave the playground with a stranger. Playgrounds in the community are hosts to many families. Sometimes it is hard to tell which child belongs to which parent or care giver. A potential threat could be lurking close by without anyone knowing. Remember to teach your child the importance of always telling someone where they are. They should never wander off the playground on their own.

Falls off of big wooden swing sets and forts are not uncommon. Make sure your child knows there is no horseplay on top of these structures. Tag, catch, and other running around games are meant for the grass!

Playgrounds are great for enjoying the fresh air, for physical activity, and for young ones to spend time with their friends. With a few simple rules the playground can be a safe place for your child to play.