A Proper Surface can Reduce Child Injuries on a Playground

Child Injuries Can be Reduced by Using Proper Playground Design-Louisville, Kentucky child accident attorney

I recently posted an article on my website revealing some frightening statistics about child accidents on playgrounds.  One of the statistics that struck me was that of all deaths on playgrounds 20 percent of them are the result of a fall.

One of the most important safety factors on the playground is the surface of the playground.  The proper surface can not only reduce the injuries but also the severity of the injuries.  The surface should be thick and soft, softening the impact of the child’s fall. 

The concrete and blacktop surfaces that I remember are unsafe and not acceptable.  Other unacceptable surfaces are grass, soil and packed earth.  These are all prone to changes in the weather that may alter the cushioning of a fall.

Other safety precautions to remember are:

·    The surface should be loosely filled woodchips, mulch, sand or shredded rubber.  Surfacing mats may also be used.
·    There should not be any free standing water and debris that could cause a fall.  There should also not be any broken glass or metal lying around on the ground around the playground.
·    The softened surface should extend beyond the play ground at least 6 feet and possibly more depending on how high the sliding board is and how long the swings are.

It is important to remember that even with proper equipment, design and surfaces there is still the potential for injuries.  Do yourself and your children a favor by examining the playground for possible hazards.