Helpful Safety Tips for Swing Sets

Every parent knows that their children are bound to fall down every now and again when playing on swing sets. However, some important safety tips should help keep them safe from unnecessary falls, burns and other possible dangers.

Shade is an important factor when you are deciding upon where the swing set should be placed in your backyard. Many people do not know how hot those pieces of equipment can become after hours in the direct sunlight. Children actually have a risk of third degree burns on very warm days. The black mats that are normally placed at the bottom of slides can be 35 degrees higher than the air temperature. Many parks and recreation areas are now using rubber mulch or pea gravel to prevent burns. Another burn hazard are the slides that are made of steel, those can get up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the heat of the day. It is recommended to spread a three inch layer of choice ground cover onto the entire area before you install your new swing sets. Equipment placement is a vital safety tip to consider for the well being of the children.

Make sure that all of the nuts and bolts on the swing sets are tightly fastened at least every six months. Simply going around and doing a few turns of the screwdriver can give an extra benefit in safety. While you are moving from each piece, visually inspect the set for signs of wear, such as rust or splintering wood. Take the time to sand off rough edges and do quick repairs as you go. For a case of rust, you could simply re-paint the set for the moment until a time that you can replace the swing set. When you opt for one of the better swing sets that are made of galvanized steel, they are much more durable and do not require an extensive amount of repairs.

The visual inspection should also include checking for worn plastic pieces that may be a hazard for pinching, scratching and cutting your children. Around the swings themselves are major points to examine because of the frequent rubbing of the swing chain. Check for broken swing seats, as well. The swing seat that is made of plastic can crack and pinch skin easily, so be sure to replace them when you notice it. You can order swing set replacement parts and accessories fairly easily online. Many busy parents prefer to shop online, rather than to run all around town looking for the right replacement part. Some of the most reputable online retailers do not even charge shipping or pick up fees, so that will be even more of a bonus.

The final safety tips for swing sets are ones which parents should already be aware; age appropriateness and adult supervision. Age appropriate advice should be a significant safety concern for those that have little ones. Swing sets are designed for specific age groups and some of the pieces are not made for younger children. Smaller children need to use the equipment that is designed to be used by their age group. For example, a three year old should always be placed in a safety swing instead of one without belts. A toddler swing is perfect for children of this age. Supervision, needless to say, goes a long way in safety for your children on the swing sets and playground.

Enjoyment is not the only thing that children gain from the interaction of others on the playground, a mental stimulation occurs as well. Swing sets are designed to stimulate the imagination of any child and you can rest easy knowing that they are safe as they play and learn.