Once a child is old enough to have large toys to play with in the yard or playground, a whole new set of hazards can arise.
It is impossible to provide a totally safe environment for your child, but if you take precautions the risk of serious accidents can be greatly reduced. For example, ensure outdoor equipment is carefully installed and regularly checked for wear and damage.
- Young children should always be carefully supervised, and never left alone to play outdoors, especially in wading pools
- Play equipment such as slides and swings should be checked regularly for strength, stability, and sign of corrosion. They should be installed on a soft, flat surface, such as a grass or rubber padding- never on concrete
- Check all play equipment to ensure that there is no risk of scissoring, shearing, or pinching injuries and that surfaces are free from snags and splinters
- Instruct your children carefully on what they can and can’t do on play equipment
- Ensure that tents, playhouses, and tunnels are made of flame- retardant material
- Ensure sandboxes are covered when not in use to stop animals from fouling them
- Fence off ponds and pools
- Always empty a wading pool after use
