Playing Outdoors

Young children should be watched closely at all times when playing outside. Use the following tips for outdoor safety.

• Yards should be fenced in, and gates should be locked.
• Dangerous substances, such as pesticides, should be kept out of reach.
• Gardening and working tools should be locked away and out of reach.
• Lawn mowers and weed whackers are dangerous. Children should not be outside when you are using this equipment. Children should never ride on a riding mower. For more information, visit our Lawn Mower Safety page.
• Children should never be allowed near gas grills or barbecues.
• Playground equipment should be installed securely in the ground and checked often. Bolts should not stick out and “S-hooks” must be completely closed.
• Because nearly 70 percent of playground injuries are a result of falls, the surface under the playground equipment should be soft. Safe surfaces such as mulch, chips, sand or poured-in-place rubber mats should be 9 to 12 inches deep. Teach your child how to use playground equipment properly, and only provide age-appropriate equipment.