At your child's school playground, the local park, or your own backyard, follow these playground safety guidelines from the National Program for Playground Safety (NPPS) to lessen the risk of falls and other injuries.
Remember the acronym "SAFE," says NPPS.
"S" is for Supervision. Always supervise your child at the playground, watching for potential hazards. "S" is also for strings and ropes, which should not be present. Strings (such as drawstrings on clothing) or ropes used for play can cause accidental strangulation if caught on equipment.
"A" is for Age-appropriate. Younger children (ages 2-5) should have their own equipment in an area separate from equipment designed for school-age children (ages 5-12).
"F" is for Falls. Playground surfaces should be designed to cushion children when they fall. Playground equipment should not be placed on concrete, asphalt, grass, packed dirt or rocks. According to NPPS, acceptable surfaces include:
- hardwood fiber/mulch
- pea gravel
- sand
- synthetic materials such as poured-in-place rubber mats or tiles
"E" is for Equipment. Play equipment should be anchored safely in the ground, and all pieces should be in good working order, without protruding bolts, exposed footings, partially opened S-hooks or other hazards.
