Summer in New York is breathtaking, with the heat, bustle, and sweet fragrances lining the streets. Our expansive public parks and recreation system make spending time outdoors irresistible, and parents of young children in the city spend hours enjoying our many playgrounds while also prioritizing playground safety tips.
As we enjoy this season of endless excitement, harnessing its joys requires a dash of precaution. As your trusted Long Island Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand the power of preparation. Embark on a journey of park safety with our top five playground safety tips, ensuring that your playground escapades are etched as precious memories for you and your loved ones to treasure.
Our Top Playground Safety Tips
Bring Healthy Snacks and Fresh Water
Naturally, kids burn a ton of energy even when visiting the playground, even for just an hour. They run, scream, and climb everything. It is in their nature. Healthy snacks are a good source of fuel to keep them charged during their play time. Fresh, cold ice water is a great way to keep them hydrated and cool as summer temps rise.
Carry a Good First-Aid Kit
Bringing along a reliable first aid kit guarantees you’re well-prepared for any unexpected bumps along the way. Playground equipment, typically crafted from materials like metal, wood, or sturdy plastic, can occasionally lead to minor mishaps like cuts, scrapes, splinters, or bruises. With a well-stocked first aid kit at your side, you can swiftly provide comfort and care to yourself or your child, ensuring that a fantastic day at the park remains entirely intact.
Discuss Age-Appropriate Safety Rules Beforehand
Depending on how old your child is, you may or may not have safety rules to discuss. Children ages three and older are capable of basic comprehension of the rules for playing at the playground. Some of these rules may include:
- No touching or playing with stray animals
- Only talking to other children or adults known to the child
- Reporting accidents or injuries immediately
- Designating a meet-up spot if your child is lost
Keep the rules simple and age-appropriate for the child. Not only do they protect him or her, you also establish healthy expectations.
Adults Should Avoid Playing on Playground Equipment
One of the best parts of taking your child to a playground is being able to relive your own childhood memories. You might even be excited about going down the slide or swinging on the swings with your little one. Unfortunately, some playgrounds are engineered and manufactured for the height and weight of a child only. Fully grown adults could cause equipment to break down or malfunction. It is best to avoid this issue if possible.
Report Malfunctioning Playground Equipment
Playground equipment should be regularly maintained by the facility administrators or manufacturer. Take pictures and make notes of any playground equipment you see in need of repair. The safety of your child and others depends upon everyone doing their part. If you see something, say something! Report broken equipment through the proper channels.
Speak with a Long Island Child Accident Lawyer if Something Unexpected Happens
Kids will be kids. They are capable of accidents or injuries to themselves or others. Sometimes, it is someone else’s negligence that causes this to happen, as well. If your child was injured while playing at the playground, you may be entitled to compensation. The child accident attorneys at the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP are here to help. Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case by calling (516) 358-6900 or by submitting our contact form.
