OUTDOOR PLAYSETS FOR THE BACKYARD

1. OUTDOOR PLAYSETS FOR THE BACKYARD W ith technology these days, it becomes harder and harder to get our kids to go outside and play. You know, like we did in the old days, like using outdoor playsets. And even if we can get them to go outside, a trip to the park is not always the safest option. The best place for our kids to play outside is in our own back yards. They get the fresh air they need, and we get to keep an eye on them while they are playing. For this reason, more and more parents are looking to make the backyard into a fun and entertaining experience for the kids. Outdoor playsets, play houses, tree houses, swings and slides have become an everyday addition to many back yards. Although these items can be a fun part of a kids daily play routine, whether it’s your own back ground play sets, school playground equipment, or even commercial play equipment, it is important to look at the safety aspects of this outdoor equipment. Safety tips to consider: • Surface of the outdoor playsets – it is recommended that you create a shock absorbing surface at least 9 inches deep for equipment up to 7 feet high. This can be done with wood or rubber mulch or shredded rubber. The cost of the rubber option is higher, but it is more durable and if you do not use black, it will not be as hot in the summer time. • Location of the outdoor playsets – it is recommended that the shock absorbing area be created at least 6 feet in all directions from the play set. For swings, ensure that the area is twice that of the height of the suspending bar, front and back. Make surethat there is no obstacles or equipment in the fall zone. • Be careful of climbing nets where children can get trapped. Also ensure that play equipment is less than 3 inches or more than 10 inches above the ground. This will help to avoid a child getting trapped. • Ensure that play surfaces and platforms have guard rails in place. Avoid sets with monkey bars that is above other pieces of equipment. The area below a monkey bar should be clear in case of a fall. • Children should not be allowed to add their own equipment to the play sets. • Outdoor playsets should be checked on a regular basis for corrosion, missing or loose parts, wood that is rotting, or if you are staying in one of the hotter states, play equipment that is very hot. • Ensure that the outdoor playsets equipment you buy is of high quality and that the supplier stipulates weight and age on the product.

2. • If you purchase a backyard play set and you are not sure about the construction part, get a professional to help out. • …and last but not least, keep an eye on the kids to make sure they are using the equipment in a safe manner. If you are planning on starting small, there is many options out there to expand on play sets. Just remember to buy according to age. Some older kids may not enjoy sets designed for toddlers and will have more fun on designs for their age groups.