Safe Play on Swing Sets

Playset Safety For Safe Play On Wooden Swing Sets

Swingset safety is top priority, it is very important to pull out the owner’s manual and review with the children the rules. Children need to understand the rules so everyone can play safe. As we talk about the safety rules it is equally important to remember that children need to be supervised by an adult at all times. Teach children to use the equipment in the intended manner. Restrict children from twisting swing chains or ropes since this may reduce the strength of these items. Talk about playset safety with your children and their friends. Parents and caregivers need to make sure Kids are dressed appropriately when they go to play on the swing set. For example, Kids should wear well fitting clothing, shoes, avoid capes, ponchos, clothing with hanging ties, and any type of neck scarves, dress up boas or any clothing that is loose fitting, which may be potentially hazardous while using the swingset. Parents should also prevent children from climbing on swingsets when wet or in adverse weather conditions. Be sure to check your owners manual for important swing set safety guidelines.

How To Use A Swing On A Wooden Playset Or Metal Playset

When Kids are swinging on a wooden swing set they should be understand the safety rules. This includes only one child per seat. Teach children to sit in the center of swing, with their full weight on seat. Children should NOT twist the chain, or loop them over the top support bar since this may reduce the strength of the chain. Reinforce this rule, DO NOT swing empty seats (swings or gliders) and remind everyone, DO NOT walk close to, in front of, behind, or between moving swing sets or children sliding. These guidelines are for metal and wooden playgrounds.

Monkey Bars On Swingsets And Top Ladder

Monkey Bar Safety Reminders – Children should NOT use the monkey bars on the top ladder when swings and/or trapeze bars are being used. Swing accessories should be removed before using the monkey bars. Monkey bars are not intended for children under seven years old. Do not allow children under age 7 to use monkey bars unless supported by an adult. Children should NOT be on the top surface of the top ladder. Remember, adult supervision is required at all times for children of all ages.

Why is ground cover important?

Here are some helpful reminders to keep in mind to prevent accidents. Use a shock absorbing material underneath and around the swing set. Refer to your owner’s manual for guidelines and depth of ground cover. Rubber mulch is a wonderful product to use as ground cover underneath a playset. Remember, a 6 foot safe play zone should be around the entire swing set. Children should never swing an empty swing or walk in front or behind swing that are occupied. Rubber Mulch is also good for our environment, as it helps keep old tires out of landfills.

Metal Swing Sets And Wood Swing Sets Maintenance

Playsets should be inspected on a regular basis (twice monthly during the season) by parents. If any of the following conditions are noted they should be removed, corrected or repaired immediately to prevent injuries and do not use the swing set until all maintenance is complete. Check for the following.

1. Hardware that is loose, worn or that has protrusions or projections
2. Exposed equipment footings
3. Scattered debris, litter, rocks, or tree roots
4. Rust and chipped paint on metal components
5. Splinters, large crack, and decayed wood components.
6. Deterioration and corrosion on structural components, which connect to the ground
7. Missing or damaged equipment components, such as handholds, guardrails, swing seats, etc.

Dianna, is always offering safety and education tips to parents and caregivers. She focused on parents, and wants them to properly teach children to play safe on equipment. She is also the Founder of Best Price Toys a leading children’s playground store, and educational toys website were the focus is on outdoor play and exercise for children. You can visit her store to learn more about Swing Sets and Swing Set safety for Kids.