Playgrounds are fun places where children can explore, move, and play. But they can be dangerous if children are unsupervised or if the area is not properly designed or maintained. Accidents happen for many reasons, but you can prevent them. The following tips can help you keep children safe.
 
Conduct a quick survey
Before allowing children to play, make sure

• The area is designed so adults can supervise children at all times.

• The playground is free of hazards. For example, make sure the ground is free of trash and broken glass.

• There is safety surfacing beneath equipment, especially under climbing materials. Look for a thick layer of mulch, sand, or synthetic shockabsorbing surfacing, such as shredded rubber.

• The equipment is in good repair. Rust, exposed nails or screws, and loose pieces can be hazardous. Plastics should be free of cracks and wood free of splinters.

• There is adequate shading. If equipment is metal, ensure it is not too hot.

• Smaller steps and crawl spaces.

• Low platforms with short ladders or ramps with grips.

• Shorter slides, usually less than 4 feet high.

• No rope or chain climbers hung at an angle, horizontal bars, or sliding poles.

• Watch children at all times. For example, monitor the slide so children go up the ladder one at a time.

• If there is more than one adult, split up so you each can watch the area from a different perspective.

• Work with them to create three or four playground guidelines, such as “Make sure I can see my teacher” and “Take turns on the slide.”

• Post the guidelines on the classroom wall and discuss them periodically.