Summer is a time we want our kids to enjoy the outdoors, where they can play with their friends, get much-needed exercise, and have fun. As parents, we want to assume that neighborhood playgrounds in and around San Diego are safe and free from hidden dangers, but unfortunately, that’s not always the case. We’d like to help your summer holiday remain free of any tragic accidents, so here are some tips for keeping your kids safe while they enjoy their time off from school.
Playgrounds Can Be Danger Zones
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 200,000 children ages 14 and below are treated for playground-related injuries annually in the United States. Of those, 45% are classified as “severe,” such as fractures, internal injuries, and amputations. 75% of the non-fatal injuries occur on public playgrounds, at schools and day care facilities. In the decade from 1990–2000, nearly 150 children died of playground injuries, mainly from strangulation and falls.
Safety Tips for Parents
Following some simple guidelines can help prevent many of these tragic accidents. First off, as a parent, you should never assume that a piece of playground equipment is safe, so always inspect it first for any possible defects before allowing your children to play on it.
- Look out for open hooks or protruding bolts.
- Make sure that swing seats are constructed from soft materials rather than a flat board.
- Moving parts on a playground set can pose a pinching hazard. Make sure that your children don’t get trapped by such equipment.
- Certain materials, such as rubber, metal, or plastic, can become extremely hot in direct sunlight and burn. This is particularly true of slides.
- Also, children should not be allowed to play barefoot on a public playground.
It’s best to talk to your children and have a clear set of rules that they obey while at the playground. For younger children, never allow them to play at a public playground without adult supervision. They should avoid playing with other children who are not familiar with appropriate playground etiquette, as many injuries are the result of improper play.
Playground Accidents Still Happen
Sadly, no amount of precaution can prevent every accident. Too many injuries that occur on the playground are the result of negligence, whether by the equipment manufacturer, property owner, or supervisor. The legal team at Jurewitz Law Group Injury & Accident Lawyers sympathizes with parents whose children who have been injured and we are committed to helping you be fully and fairly compensated. Contact one of our San Diego playground accident attorneys at (888) 233-5020 today to schedule a free consultation.
