Playgrounds and outdoor play areas offer a new, fun environment for kids in the warmer months. Although it does offer fresh air, interaction, and exercise for children, playgrounds can also be quite dangerous if children are not watched after properly and abide by playground etiquette. Each year in the United States, more than 200,000 kids are treated in hospital emergency rooms for playground-related injuries. To keep children safe on playgrounds, there are certain things that they should be taught and certain responsibilities that parents or sitters to take on while visiting play areas.
Teach Children To:
Abide by proper playground etiquette and rules.
Never roughhouse at the playground.
Use the playground equipment properly, such as, sliding feet first, sitting on swings, etc.
Store their backpacks, bags, or other personal items away from the playground equipment, so that a danger is not created for themself or others.
Be mindful of others that are playing. This involves taking turns, using the equipment one at a time, etc.
Watch out for themself on the playground. This involves knowing how to avoid risks and hazards.
Parents Or Sitters Should:
Properly supervise, no matter how educated your child is about playground safety.
Make sure the area and equipment is safe for your child to play on. If it isn't up to par, take the responsibility to notify the community parks department, school, or other organization that is responsible for the upkeep of the playground.
Make sure they wear the proper clothing and shoes to prevent an injury from happening. Clothing with drawstrings or cords can put children at great risk for accidental strangulation. Closed toe shoes are highly recommended, as well.
Make sure that children wear sunscreen when playing outside, even on cloudy days to protect against sunburn.
Common Playground Dangers:
Standing Water or Wet Equipment, creating slip and fall risk.
Random Debris, such as rocks, tree roots, etc. creating trip risk.
Broken Equipment, creating risk for various accidents and injuries.
Wooden Equipment, creating risk for splinters and cuts.
Metal Equipment, creating risk for burns.
Playgrounds are a very popular spring and summer attraction for kids and can be a fun way to spend time. As with anything, however, safety is key. Keep your kids safe this season by teaching them proper playground etiquette and doing your part as well!
Kaufman Law represents those that have been personally injured in various situations. If you or your child has been injured on a playground due to some sort of negligence, you may have a premise liability case on your hands. With questions about a potential case, contact our experienced #Atlanta firm today.