Parents and Caregivers - Play Safety

Playgrounds are a great place for children to have fun, explore, and build their physical and social skills. However, it’s important to be aware of the potential hazards to ensure that playtime is safe for every child. The following are essential protocols for parents and caregivers to ensure your children Play Safer at your next playground visit!

1. Check the Equipment - Before letting children play, take a moment to inspect the equipment and make sure it’s in good condition. Check for any sharp edges, loose screws, missing parts, or other potential hazards. If you notice any issues, report them to the appropriate authorities immediately.

2. Supervise Children - Young children, especially those under the age of five, should be supervised at all times while playing on the playground. This can help prevent accidents and ensure that children are safe.

3. Teach Rules - Explain the importance of following the rules of the playground, such as not pushing or shoving, not climbing on dangerous equipment, and not running near swings. By setting clear guidelines, you can help reduce the risk of accidents and ensure a fun, safe experience for everyone.

4. Avoid Strangulation Hazards - Make sure that children do not wear clothing with strings or cords, such as hoodie drawstrings, that could become tangled on the equipment. This can pose a serious strangulation hazard.

5. Avoid Moving Equipment - Children should be warned to stay away from moving equipment, such as swings, seesaws, and spinners. They should not stand too close to these pieces of equipment, as they can be dangerous when in motion.

6. Know Your Children's Limits - Each child is different, and it’s important to be aware of their abilities and limitations. If your child is too young or not physically capable of playing on certain pieces of equipment, it’s best to avoid them.

7. Certified Inspection - Look for a label stating the play area has been regularly (Annually) inspected by a certified L3 RPII play safety compliance specialist. Think of this as a warrant of safety for your playground. See: Certified Annual Inspection

In conclusion, following these simple safety tips can help ensure that children have a fun and safe time while playing on the playground. Remember to always supervise children and check the equipment. By being proactive and informed, you can help prevent accidents and ensure fun and safe playtime for everyone.