Staying Safe on the Playground

Warmer weather and longer days mean summer is right around the corner. As schools let out playgrounds become a great source of exercise, fun, and meet-ups with friends.  To really enjoy playgrounds keep these safety tips in mind.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 200,000 children ages 14 and under are treated in emergency rooms for playground related injuries. 20,000 of those are traumatic brain injuries.  The most common cause of injury is falling - about 80% of all injuries are related to falls from slides, swings, climbing walls or monkey bars.

Before taking your children to a playground look for the following safety features:

- The ground cover under playground equipment should be one of the following recommended materials: wood chips, mulch, sand, shredded tire, rubber mats or pea gravel.

- Look for potential tripping hazards such as tree roots or stumps.

- Inspect equipment for possible sharp objects such as bolts or hooks.

What can you do at the playground to make it a safe experience for your child?

- Dress your children appropriately - tennis shoes or closed toe shoes, no helmets, drawstrings or necklaces.

- Actively supervise your child and keep them in your line of sight.

- Look at the recommended age range of play equipment and keep younger children on age appropriate equipment.

- Keep children who are not swinging away from the swings to avoid getting hit.

- Apply sunscreen and keep fluids available.

Playgrounds are a great way to enjoy being outdoors - make sure they are done right so you and your family can have a wonderful and safe experience.