Wednesday, April 18, 2018

20,000 U.S. Children Treated Annually For Playground Injuries

With springtime comes more children playing on local playgrounds. Although playgrounds are safer than they used to be, injuries still happen. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, emergency departments treat more than 20,000 children (ages 14 and younger) in America for playground injuries each year. Broken bones, abrasions and even strangulation can occur on playground structures. I was recently reading about some ways that playground safety can be enhanced.

It's widely agreed that adult supervision is a key component of preventing playground injuries. Adults can ensure that kids don't engage in unsafe behavior when using playground equipment. Adults can also help kids gauge distances on equipment, help them get up and down from climbing structures, and help make sure that older kids do not test limits too much.

Having safe equipment is also essential for protecting children on playgrounds. Since the mid-1980's, innovations in technology have led to new playground equipment and surfacing requirements. Some safety guidelines include proper signage and labeling, and safe surface materials -- which include engineered wood fiber, pea gravel, sand, shredded rubber mulch, wood chips, and organic mulch.

It's also important that the playground equipment be kept in safe working order. Tripping hazards, such as rocks or tree stumps, should be removed from the area. Sharp edges should be made smooth, and all platforms should be in good repair with working guardrails. Hardware should be checked and never protrude. The cushioned ground surface should extend at least six feet beyond the equipment, and worn out materials should be replaced.

Finally, children should use only the equipment recommended for their age groups and ability levels. Some playgrounds have age guidelines clearly posted on equipment to help adults ensure their kids play on equipment that is right for their ages.

I always loved time with my own children on playgrounds when they were young. It's one thing to make sure your kids are safe on the playground, but it's another thing to make sure that you are building memories with them that they -- and you -- will always treasure. Go play!

From Him, Through Him, For Him (Romans 11:36),

Paul J. Staso
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