Playground safety

Be sure an adult supervises children.

Adults should be on the lookout for potential hazards. They can also provide guidance and facilitate play when needed.

Make sure equipment is age-appropriate.

Preschoolers (ages 2-5) and school-age children (ages 5-12) are developmentally different. For that reason, they need separate areas for play so that everyone can stay safe and have fun.

Check equipment.

Always check to make sure equipment is anchored safely in the ground. Ensure that pieces are in good working order and free of rust, splinters, and missing parts. S-hooks should be entirely closed, and bolts should not protrude. Ropes should be secured on both ends.

Check surfacing material.

Nearly 70 percent of all playground injuries are related to falls. Avoid playgrounds with concrete, asphalt or blacktop surfaces. Also stay away from ones that have grass surfaces, packed dirt or rocks.

Dress children appropriately.

Closed shoes are recommended. Children should not wear bike helmets because they can get caught easily and could lead to strangulation. Avoid clothing with strings or ropes, too.

Protect children from the sun and hot surfaces.

Encourage the use of UVA and UVB protective clothing and sunglasses. Always wear sunscreen. Check for hot surfaces before allowing children to play. Unshaded surfaces can get hot quickly and may even cause burns. Pay close attention to the temperature. A heat index at or above 90 degrees Fahrenheit may pose a health risk to children. Make sure everyone drinks enough.

Source: National Program for Playground Safety