Safety Tips for Outside Play
The best place for kids to play is outside.
The best place for kids to play is outside. Unfortunately, the outside isn’t always the safest place. This is not just because of potential physical or social dangers but also because of what might lurk in the playground.
Here are some tips for safe fun outside:
Safe outdoor outfits
Dress the kids appropriately. This means clothes that can withstand a tumble and protect a youngster’s skin. Knee and elbow pads are great extras if the kids are doing sports.
Pick shoes with good traction, such as sports shoes. Kids get carried away when playing outside, especially with friends, and can easily slip and fall. That’s especially true if they’re playing on wet grass.
Supervision on the green
Watch the kids or have someone else supervise them. Grass may be softer than concrete, but that doesn’t mean a heavy fall won’t hurt. Be ready to intervene if play gets too rough or there’s a risk of injury.
Sun protection
Playing outside, especially on a hot summer day, can be unkind to the little ones’ skin. Apply sunscreen to protect them from UV exposure, even on cloudy days. UV rays can still pose a risk in overcast skies. Also, during peak hours, children should play in the shade.
Hydration
Playing is draining. So keep the kids’ thirst quenched with plenty of water, especially if it’s getting hot. Make time for water breaks and make them fun, if possible.
Inspect the play space
Grass may seem as safe as any outdoor play surface. However, before letting kids loose, check the playground for holes, rocks, or hidden debris. Small, hidden hazards could mean trips and falls. Inspecting the area beforehand can prevent common injuries.
Teach stranger safety
Kids should be aware of stranger danger, especially when unsupervised. Teach them to avoid strangers and what to do if they feel uncomfortable around someone.
Allergy awareness
Children with allergies should be extra careful when playing outside. They should be vigilant about insect stings or plants on the lawn. If an allergy occurs, have medication like antihistamines or epinephrine injectors close at hand.
Playtime rules
Kids should know where it’s okay to play, where they can go, and how far they can wander. Furthermore, they should be taught to respect their playmates and the nature around them.
Weather watch
Keep an eye on the weather. Wet grass can be slippery, and lightning storms are dangerous in open fields. Check the weather forecast before letting kids play outside, and have a plan for when the weather takes a turn for the worse.
Keep the lawn clean!
Kids should always play on a clean lawn. Dirty and unmaintained grass, whether artificial or natural, harbors bacteria and other germs. Talk to a turf maintenance specialist for more information about how to have the cleanest lawn possible, safe, and fun for kids, adults, and pets alike.
TurfWash is an artificial turf cleaning company in the Phoenix Metro area offering safe, odorless cleaning and repair for artificial turf. We are a family business that has over 23 years of experience in the artificial turf industry. We take pride in our in-depth knowledge of artificial turf and our passion for providing excellent service. Give us a call at 602-560-8582.
