Our warm, lengthy summers mean plenty of time outdoors. With two littles to run after, safety is at the forefront of my mind. Every year, 4,200 people go to the emergency room for pool or spa-related injuries and more than 200,000 children under the age of 14 are treated for play set related injuries. My active 3 year old has had his share of minor bumps, scrapes and bruises…but fortunately nothing major. Underwriters Laboratories, a leading product safety testing organization, offers some tips on keeping your kids safe this summer:
Water Safety
•Fence it in! If you have a pool at home, install a fence that is at least 4 feet high with a self-closing, self-latching gate. Be sure the locking mechanism is high enough so a child cannot reach it.
•Deter them from climbing in! Cut overhanging tree limbs and remove chairs or ladders from the pool area to prevent children from climbing over the fence that surrounds the pool. Remove pool toys. Drain wading pools when done.
.•Keep it covered! Keep grates and drain covers in good repair and secured in place. Children should be taught to avoid these devices, as the suction from drain outlets can be strong enough to cause entrapment and drowning.
•Be prepared! Make sure you know infant and child CPR if you own a pool. Have emergency numbers posted nearby. Have rescue devices (not flotation devices or inflatable swimming aids) such as UL-LISTED life preservers nearby.
•Supervise! Follow the 10/20 rule when you’re at the pool. The supervising adult needs to position themselves to be able to scan the pool every 10 seconds, and reach the water within 20 seconds.
Backyard Play Safety
Survey your available space! Make sure your backyard is large enough for playground equipment and offers visibility and security. Be aware of obstacles including the garage, tree branches, utility poles, and wires.
Do your homework! Read and follow the manufacturer’s directions when setting up play set equipment. Note weight and age requirements for the equipment you’re installing.
Keep them safe! Install protective surfacing (i.e. rubber tiles, mulch) under the play set, at least six feed
in all directions, to prevent serious injuries should a child fall.
Inspect! Make sure equipment is anchored safely in the ground, all equipment pieces are in good working order, S-hooks are entirely closed, and bolts are not protruding.
Look for potential dangers! Check for spaces that could trap children, such as openings in guardrails or between ladder rungs. These spaces should measure less than 3.5 inches or more than 9 inches. Never attach ropes, jump ropes, clotheslines, pet leashes or cords of any kind to play set equipment which could pose a strangulation hazard. Watch for potential trip hazards, such as rocks, tree stumps and concrete footings. Before letting your child dig in, rake through the sand to check for debris, sharp objects, animal contamination or insect problems.
Supervise! Always supervise children on play set equipment to make sure they are playing safely.
Disney created several cute Lion King themed videos on safety…check them out here.
What are your tips for staying safe this summer?
I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Underwriters Laboratories. Mom Central sent me a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.
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