Play Safe at the Playground
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Playgrounds are a great place for children to be active. But playgrounds are also a place where musculoskeletal injuries occur. Each year in Canada, about 28 500 children receive hospital treatment for playground injuries (Canadian Paediatric Society, 2007).
Playground injuries can be serious. Injuries can range from broken bones (e.g., arm, wrist, elbow) to head injuries (e.g., skull fractures, concussions). These injuries cause physical pain, and can result in surgery, infection, nerve damage, or being unable to return to normal activities (e.g., sports, school) (Fiissel, et al., 2005).
Although playground injuries are common, most injuries can be prevented. The information below outlines steps parents can take to help keep children safe at the playground.
Falls from equipment (e.g., monkey bars, climbers, and slides) are the main cause of playground injuries. Therefore, make sure children are using equipment meant for them:
• Children under five years of age should use equipment under 5 feet (1.5m) high.
• Children five to twelve years of age should use equipment under 7 feet (2.3m) high.
• Check what’s under and around playground equipment. Choose equipment that’s on a deep soft surface (6 to12 inches) of sand, wood chips, rubber, or pea gravel (Canadian Paediatric Society, 2007).
Check playground equipment, and report safety concerns:
• Look for and avoid broken glass, damaged equipment, needles, bolts, or sharp edges that stick out.
• Report any dangers or concerns to the playground operator (e.g., local park and recreation department, school office), and also teach children to report dangers to an adult (Canadian Paediatric Society, 2007).
Supervise children at all times:
• Stay within arms reach of young children (i.e., those five years of age and younger) at all times. Hold their hands when they’re climbing, and catch them when they’re coming down the slide.
• Watch older children (i.e., those five to nine years of age) closely to make sure they’re following rules. This age group tends to think they can do anything, and don’t always see the danger of their actions (Safe Kids Canada, 2010).
Teach children to remove the following items before using playground equipment:
• Clothing with drawstrings or cords (e.g., hoodies, hats, jackets, mittens).
• Scarves, bike helmets, and skipping ropes should be set aside before using equipment.
Teach children safety rules, and remind them of the rules often:
• For example, when using a slide, teach them to wait their turn, use the stairs, hold onto railings, slide feet first, and never jump off (Canadian Paediatric Society, 2007).
Playgrounds are an important part of childhood play. Playgrounds are a great place for children to be active, make friends, and develop skills. But safety should always come first. By following the steps outlined above, parents and grandparents can help keep children safe while having fun at the playground. For more information on playground safety, visit http://www.wechealthunit.org/playground-safety
