Playground Safety

Outdoor play can provide many benefits for children’s healthy development, but spending time outside also comes with risks of injury. Tonight, on House Call a medical professional from UHC joins us to discuss summer safety tips when it comes to playgrounds.

1). How can you minimize the risk of playground injuries?

Each year in the United States, Emergency Departments treat more than 200,000 children ages 14 and younger for playground-related injuries.

It is important for parents to do the following:

• Check to make sure that the surfaces under playground equipment are safe, soft, and well-maintained—you want to ensure that soft materials are used, such as wood chips, sand, or mulch. Safe playground surfacing will reduce injuries by more than half, as most injuries occur when a child falls from the equipment onto the ground.
• Read playground signs and use playground equipment that is right for your child’s age.
• Make sure there are guardrails in good condition to help prevent falls.
• Look out for things in the play area that can trip your child, such as tree stumps or rocks.

2). What is the one safety tip most adults overlook?

Playgrounds tend to be wide open spaces with little shade from the sun. Take measures to protect your child from UV rays by applying sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or greater for children ages six months or older. Reapply sunscreen as suggested on the label. Dress your child in appropriate play clothes, too.

Don’t forget that on hot, humid days, check the temperature of playground equipment as some surfaces can burn skin. Make sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

3). What should parents do while watching their children play?

Always supervise your child on the playground. Have clear sightlines and easy access to your child. Watch, count, and listen while everyone enjoys some recreation. It is important to anticipate what your child may do and redirect him or her when necessary.

This content was originally posted on the WDTV News website here.

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