Fun and Safe Playground

It is Summer, and public playgrounds are a daily destination for many kids. Make sure it is a safe entertainment by checking the following potential hazards:

Improper Protective Surfacing
The surface or ground under and around the playground equipment should be soft enough to cushion a fall.

Protrusion and Entanglement Hazards
A protrusion hazard is a component or piece of hardware that might be capable of impaling or cutting a child if a child should fall against the hazard. Some protrusions are also capable of catching strings or items of clothing which might be worn around a child's neck and cause entanglement or strangulation.

Entrapment in Openings
Enclosed openings on playground equipment must be checked for head-entrapment hazards. Children often enter openings feet first and attempt to slide through the opening. If the opening is not large enough, it may allow the body to pass through the opening and entrap the head.

Age-Inappropriate Activities
Children's developmental needs vary greatly from age 2 to age 12.

Pinch, Crush, Shearing and Sharp-Edge Hazards
Components in the play environment should be inspected to make sure there are no sharp edges or points that could cut skin.

Platforms with No Guardrails
Elevated surfaces such as platforms, ramps and bridgeways should have guardrails that prevent accidental falls.

Source: Based on Momlogic content.