Backyard Playthings Present Hazards
By Lamar James, U of A Cooperative Extension
07-05-2008MURFREESBORO, Ark. - Pools, playgrounds and lawn care equipment are all potential safety hazards this summer, says Robbie McKinnon, Pike County extension agent with the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture.
“Pools and playgrounds get lots of use, so be vigilant,” she said.
In 2007, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimated 2,200 injuries to children five years of age and younger associated with pools and spas.
Children in or around a pool require constant adult supervision. No child should be allowed to swim without the presence of an adult. Keep the pool area clear of toys and clean spills as soon as they happen to reduce the risk of falling. Pool chemicals should be stored in a dry, locked location, in their original containers.
In order to prevent tragedy, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends designating an adult whose only responsibility is supervising the children. Learning rescue methods and how to swim are also recommended.
“Take a class to learn First Aid and CPR,” McKinnon said.
Playground equipment should be tested occasionally to ensure it is sturdy and safe. There should be no torn metal, raised screws or any other danger to children. The area under and around the playground should be covered with a soft material; like hardwood chips, mulch or pea gravel. This covering should be at least nine inches deep and extend six feet from all sides of the equipment.
Playground equipment and accessories should be appropriate for the age of the children.
“If you allow older and heavier teens to use the equipment, it could be compromised and become unsafe for the younger children for whom it was designed,” she said.
According to the CDC, emergency departments across the country treat more than 200,000 children ages 14 and younger for playground-related injuries. About 45 percent of these injuries are severe - dislocations, fractures, concussions, internal injuries and amputations. While the majority of nonfatal injuries occurred on public playground equipment, the CDC reports 70 percent of fatal injuries occur on home playgrounds.
Mowing the lawn should be done when children are inside, not trying to play in the yard. Clear the yard of any obstacles, as they could shoot from under the running blades. Ear plugs should be worn to protect against the loud noise of the lawn mower and goggles should be used to protect against potential flying debris.
Gardening and lawn care equipment should be kept away from children. Store sharp gardening tools in a locked area, with blades pointing down.
To learn more about summer safety, visit http://www.uaex.edu. The Cooperative Extension Service is part of the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture.