Playground Safety Tips

A safe playground encourages children to be physically active and engage in outdoor play, which is essential for their physical and mental well-being. However, it is important to help children have a safe experience playing outside and prevent serious injuries on the playground.

One of those injuries could include brain injuries, and in honor of TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) Awareness Month in March, here are some safety rules to play by and reduce your risk of injury. 

1. Supervise Children: Always have a responsible adult present to watch and assist children during playtime.
2.  Inspect Playground Equipment: Check for loose or broken parts, sharp edges, uncovered bolts, or unsafe modifications or changes to ensure equipment is in good condition. If you notice any problems, report them to the appropriate authorities for repair.
3. Use Age-Appropriate Equipment: Make sure that children only use appropriate equipment for their age, size, and ability level. Manufacturers must clearly label equipment with signs that show the recommended age limit.
4. Prevent Entanglement Hazards: Remove jewelry, scarves, helmets, and any clothing with drawstrings before playing on playground equipment. These items can become caught in slides or other playground equipment parts, causing a choking or strangling hazard.
5. Practice Safe Falls: By following these safety measures, you can help ensure children have positive and safe experiences on the playground. Review the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s (CPSC) Public Playground Safety Handbook to learn more about current playground equipment safety standards.

By following these safety measures, you can help ensure children have positive and safe experiences on the playground. Review the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s (CPSC) Public Playground Safety Handbook to learn more about current playground equipment safety standards.

For additional questions or to learn more about Benton-Franklin Health District's 

School Environmental Health & Safety Program call (509) 460-4205 or visit www.bfhd.wa.gov.