• Create a safe play zone by keeping toys away from hard surfaces and providing enough room for kids to move.
• Check your yard regularly for hazards like sharp objects or poisonous plants.
• Inspect all equipment before each play session for broken parts or sharp edges.
• Remove and grind down stump remains in your yard to prevent tripping hazards and potentially hazardous insects or animals.
Whether it’s a trampoline, a sandbox, or just some open space for running around, the backyard can be one of the best places for kids to play and stay active. But as parents, it’s important to keep your kids safe while they’re romping around in your backyard. Here are some tips on ensuring your children stay healthy and out of harm’s way when playing outdoors.
Create a Play Zone
The first step is to create an area specifically designated for playing. A designated space for playing allows your kids to stay within a certain area and will help you keep an eye on them without hovering. Here are ways to create a safe play zone for your kids:
Keep Playzone Away from Hard Surfaces
Ensure that all yard toys, like swing sets and slides, are placed away from hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt. If possible, lay down grass turf or rubber mulch underneath any play equipment so your kids won’t get hurt as easily if your kids fall off something. Additionally, you can use padding or mats underneath any play equipment that doesn’t have its own safety surface.
Make Enough Space
You should also ensure enough room for your little ones to move around without bumping into each other—this is especially important if your children are playing with balls or other toys that could cause accidental injuries. Enough space allows your kids to move around without running into each other and helps you keep an eye on multiple children at once.
Check for Potential Hazards
It’s important to check for potential hazards in your backyard, such as sharp objects or poisonous plants. If necessary, create a barrier between your kids and any hazardous items. You should also consider removing and grinding stump remains in your yard. Stumps can be a tripping hazard and may harbor insects or other animals. Removing and grinding them down will help keep your backyard safe for children and free up some extra space for play.
Check Your Equipment Regularly
Now that you have established a designated play zone in your backyard, it’s time to ensure all the equipment is in good condition before letting your kids loose. You wouldn’t want your child to get hurt because of malfunctioning equipment. Before each play session, do the following measures:
- Inspect all pieces of play equipment for broken parts or sharp edges.
- Check the stability and sturdiness of any playground sets.
- Clean toys to make sure they are free from dust and dirt.
- Check your trampoline regularly for any tears or rips in its safety netting, surrounding springs, and padding.
Additionally, make sure to tighten up any bolts and screws if necessary, and check the spring systems on trampolines regularly. If you notice any issues with your play equipment, don’t let your kids use it until you’ve had it checked out by a professional who can assess whether it needs repairs or replacing altogether.
Secure Your Yard
Make sure your yard is secure before letting your kids run wild. A secure place for recreation gives you peace of mind that your kids are safe and out of harm’s way. Here are a few ways to ensure your backyard is secure:
Put Up Fences
Fencing is one of the most important parts of securing your backyard. Ensure any fences you install are tall enough to deter anyone from jumping over them. Additionally, ensure there aren’t any holes or gaps in the fencing that would allow children to crawl underneath, and be aware of any trees or other objects near the fence that could help someone climb over.
Install Gates
Gates should be locked when not in use. This will help ensure no one can enter the backyard uninvited and that your children are safe while playing. Consider installing a keypad or electronic lock on any gates to keep them closed and secure.
Check for Poisonous Plants
You should also check for any poisonous plants in your backyard. While you may love the look of ivy, it can be hazardous to children and animals if ingested. Other flowering plants, such as lily of the valley and foxglove, can also be poisonous, so do your research and remove any of these from your backyard.
By following these tips, you can ensure your backyard is a safe and secure place for your kids to play. There’s nothing more important than protecting the health and safety of your children, so make sure you take the necessary steps to create a fun outdoor space for them!
