MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach offers tips to help keep children safe on the playground.
Visiting the playground is more than fun. It’s an opportunity for children to develop physically, mentally, and socially through unstructured play. However, in the United States, approximately 200,000 children seek medical attention in emergency departments each year for injuries related to playground equipment.
The key to preventing playtime injuries is safety education. At MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach, the Injury Prevention Program is dedicated to providing safety education to children and families in our community.
Playground safety tips:
- Supervision isn’t negotiable; it’s imperative
- Ensure playground equipment is suitable for your child’s age
- Check for hazards such as broken equipment, sharp edges or protruding screws
- Teach children how to use equipment properly and avoid risky behaviors like pushing or shoving
“Even on safe, age-appropriate playgrounds, adult supervision is the best way to prevent injuries,” says Jennifer Rodriguez, injury prevention coordinator, MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach. “Nearly half of all playground injuries could be avoided with proper supervision. It’s crucial to maintain a visual line of sight with children at all times and be ready to intervene at any moment.”
Avoid playgrounds with concrete footings, rocks or tree stumps. The safest surfaces around playground equipment are wood chips, mulch, sand, or mats made of safety-tested rubber.
“Concussions are a common injury on playgrounds,” says Rodriguez. “I urge parents to learn the symptoms, and if you think your child has a concussion, seek medical attention right away.”
Additionally, encourage children to drink water regularly, especially on hot days. On sunny days, look for playgrounds that are in shaded areas for playground equipment can get very hot and can cause serious burns. Sunscreen and hats should be used to protect against ultraviolet rays, even if it is an overcast day. Avoid clothing with drawstrings or accessories like necklaces that could pose a safety risk.
Finally, having a first aid kit handy is paramount; scrapes and bruises are bound to happen on the playground, but being prepared can help address minor injuries and prevent infection – keeping playtime on track.
To learn more, please contact (562) 933-9151 or visit millerchildrens.org/injury-prevention-program.
