Home Playground Safety Tips

Playgrounds may be a fun place for children, but according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, each year, more than 200,000 of them are treated at U.S. hospital emergency rooms for playground-related injuries. More than 20,000 of these children have sustained a concussion or other traumatic brain injury.

If you have a home playground in your yard, help prevent injuries by following these safety tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Install with safety in mind

A safe home playground starts with where you install it and how you construct it. Choose a level surface with at least six feet of clearance in all directions. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure proper installation, make sure the equipment is anchored firmly in the ground, and remember to cap all screws and bolts. Check periodically for loose nuts and bolts and broken, rusty or sharp parts.

Choose a soft landing

Most playground injuries are caused by falling. To lessen the impact of a fall, fill the area below the playground with safety-tested mats or loose-fill materials like shredded rubber, sand, wood chips or bark, maintained to a depth of at least nine inches. Avoid using hard surfaces like grass, concrete or asphalt.

Swing and slide safely

Swing seats should be made of something soft, like rubber, plastic or canvas. Teach kids to never twist swings, swing empty seats or walk in front of or behind moving swings. And never attach jump ropes, pet leashes or similar items to playground equipment. Doing so could result in strangulation. Keep in mind that metal, plastic and rubber surfaces get hot in the sun. Check your playground before use to prevent burns.

Never leave children unattended

Children should always be closely supervised while using playground equipment. Ensure children are using the equipment properly, and keep them from pushing or fighting with each other. Having an adult supervise children is the best way to prevent injuries.