Swing Set Safety
Having a backyard swing set is one of the most memorable things in many children’s lives. Besides providing good memories swing sets also are a wonderful way for children to improve strength and balance while playing. But the issue of safety in the backyard swing set is many times overlooked and what is meant to be a fun and enjoyable time turns into bad memories. Sadly each year in the United States more than 200,000 children under the age of 14 are treated in emergency departments for playground related injuries. Even worse, about 15 children under the same age die from playground related injuries. Most playground related injuries are fractures, internal injuries, concussions, and dislocations. These numbers show why swing set safety is an important topic and adult supervision is required.
Swing sets should be picked on an age appropriate basis. If younger children will be using the set you should think of a set that can be added onto easily and one that will grow as your children grow. There is no reason to purchase components such as a rock wall or one with a net if your children are not old enough to use it. Younger children who don’t know how to use equipment made for older children is one of the most common causes of playground and swing set injuries. Along with choosing an age appropriate set you should consider the height especially if the set will have a fort or other type housing in it. Some swing sets have forts that can accommodate a ten foot slide which is definitely too high for a young child.
Where you set up the swing set should be another consideration, in fact there are Consumer Product Safety Commission guidelines for playground safety specifically concerning swings and slides. In the case of slides nothing can be placed within four feet of either side or six feet in front of a slide. Swing separation recommendations include a minimum of 22 inches apart. To read more on CPSC recommendations visit their website at www.cpsc.gov and download their Outdoor Home Playground Safety Handbook.
Placement of the swing set is another important factor in safety. The swing set should be placed in an area free from rocks, tree roots, and any other sharp objects. Large trees should be trimmed and the dead branches removed from the area. The swing set should be on level ground and if near a road or pond the area should be fenced in. The area should also be in view from the owner’s house and younger children should never be left unsupervised while playing.
Make sure the swing set is made of durable not rotting or corrosive material to avoid decay and weakening of the structure. Also you should provide a surface that cushions the fall such as woodchips, mulch, sand, or pea gravel. These are all things that have to be looked at when considering putting a swing set in your backyard. Proper planning is always the best safety rule when it comes to your children and their activities.
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