Every day, millions of children play tag, swing and climb jungle gyms. It is hard to believe that thousands of kids end up in ERs with broken bones and worse.
Playground injuries can be prevented by being aware of safety measures. We’ve put together a list of playground safety guidelines that parents and caregivers should use to protect children.
Safety of Swing Sets and Seesaws
Safety Tips for Swing Sets
- A swing should only be used by one child at a given time, unless it is designed to accommodate two people.
- If you are not swinging, stand a few feet away and clear the path of the swing.
- Do not hang from the posts of the swing set.
- Wood chips or other materials that soften landings should be placed on the ground around a swing set. Avoid swinging in areas with concrete or blacktop.
- Do not pull or push a child on a Playground Swings. Instead, swing backwards and forwards – this is how a swing should move. If you twist your body while swinging, you may get your clothing, hands, or fingers caught, or even collide with someone or a metal pole.
- Do not jump off the swing while it is still moving.
- Never swing while seated on your stomach, or leaning forward.
- Swinging small children should always be supervised. Swings that are designed specifically for very small children will provide greater security and keep them firmly in place.
Safety Tips for Seesaws
- Never get on a two-person seesaw if there are already two people on it.
- Keep your distance from a seesaw that is moving. You could get serious injury if someone jumps suddenly off a seesaw.
- Never stand or sit in the middle of a swing. Do not touch the moving parts of a seesaw.
- You can gently push off to get the seesaw to go up, and then lower yourself to the ground by bending your knees. Never use your full power to shock someone by slamming their body to the floor.
- Be sure to let the person on the other side know that you are getting off the seesaw. Do not try to let go or jump off once you are no longer sitting on the seat.
Slide & Jungle Gym Safety
Slide Safety Tips
- Wear clothing that is comfortable and free of strings or buttons that can catch. Wear clothing that covers the arms and legs. This will protect you from brush and hot surfaces.
- You must wait your turn to slide. While waiting in line, don’t push or shove.
- Never slide down head first.
- Do not try to climb up or down the slide. You may not be seen by other children, who could cause you injury.
- Avoid using a slide that has snow, ice or water on it.
- Check the temperature of the slide before you use it on a hot summer day. Within seconds, burns can happen.
Safety Tips for Jungle Gyms
- Jungle gyms are not for rough play or pushing.
- If you plan to jump from equipment, make sure that no other children are in your way. Never jump off high places.
- Avoid any bars, poles or broken plastic pieces that might stick out of a jungle gym. These can be dangerous to children.
Playground Safety Tips
- Check for broken glass or sharp sticks in a sandbox before you play.
- To protect children from injury, areas near jungle gyms, swing sets and slides should be equipped with shock-absorbing pads or materials. Do not ride your bike or rollerblade there. Use other areas that have blacktop or concrete.
- Be aware of your surroundings. As much as you can, be aware of the environment around you. Be aware of any objects or balls flying in your direction.
- Report the problem (broken or needing maintenance) to the owner of a playground. In the interim, you can designate that it is off limits.
