The last week of April (April 25 – 29, 2022) is National Playground Safety Week. At every age, it’s important to teach children about playground safety. Review the posted rules with your child when you arrive at a playground. Walk around the playground together to look for potential hazards, as well as equipment that is, and is not, age-appropriate for your child.
Teach children to use playground equipment appropriately. Review how to properly play on swings, slides, monkey-bars, and climbing equipment as needed. Remind children to look out for others and to take turns so everyone can safely enjoy the playground.
Safe Playground Standards
Safe playgrounds start with guardians and caretakers advocating for reasonable safety precautions and considerations. When exploring an unfamiliar playground, consider “S.A.F.E.” standards:
- Supervision – appropriate adult supervision of children. Even when using backyard play equipment, it’s important to supervise children at all times in case of an accident.
- Age-appropriate – ensure the playground equipment is appropriate for specific age groups.
- Fall surfacing – inspect the surfaces beneath and surrounding playground equipment to ensure adequate protection from falls.
- Equipment – survey the playground equipment for adequate maintenance and overall safety hazards. Report any concerns to the group responsible for the playground.
Avoid playground accidents by remaining aware of potential hazards and risks. If you notice damaged or unsafe equipment or surfaces, report concerns immediately to the overseeing group. Many playgrounds have signs posted that provide not only rules and regulations, but also contact information to make safety reports.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Source: Safe At Play
Image Source: Adobe Stock
