Health Tip: Inspect Your Child's Playground

Look for hidden dangers

(HealthDay News) -- While playground safety has come a long way in the past few decades, there are still many potential hazards.

Here's what to watch for, courtesy of the U.S. National Safety Council:

  • Ground surfaces that don't offer enough protection. Any playground should have at least 12 inches of mulch, wood chips, pea gravel, sand or rubber below the equipment.
  • At least six feet of protective area surrounding the swings and slides, etc., in case a child falls.
  • Any sharp edges that could hurt a child, such as on hooks or rungs.
  • Openings through which a child's head could fit.
  • Swings that are too close to other equipment.
  • Poorly-maintained equipment.
  • Equipment should include guard rails to help prevent falls.

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