ShareWINTER PLAYGROUND SAFETY FOR KIDS
Safety practices are important all year round at the playground, but winter brings some special concerns to watch for. Before you send your kids to the playground, take a look to make sure the playground equipment has been properly maintained and is clear of snow, ice, and standing water. Adult supervision is also especially important in winter, when younger children may not understand the dangers of freezing temperatures.
Here are the main safety concerns to watch for on playgrounds in the winter:
Slippery snow and ice
Frozen puddles, hard-packed snow, and icy patches on playgrounds can be extremely dangerous. It’s essential to watch for snow and ice around playgrounds and to remove as much as possible. Playgrounds coated in thick ice should be avoided until the ice has melted enough to be safe.
Cold temperatures
Severe winter weather can come with extremely cold temperatures. Be mindful of the weather forecasts and outside temperatures before sending kids out to play. Ensure kids are dressed properly for the weather, and keep kids inside if the temperatures are dangerously low. Any adults supervising the playground should be aware of the warning signs of hypothermia and frostbite, and watch for these dangerous conditions.
Loose-fitting clothing and drawstrings
Kids playing outside in the winter should be properly bundled up to keep warm. However, clothing should fit properly. Items that are loose-fitting clothing and dangling should be avoided. Baggy jackets, long scarves, and long drawstrings on sweatshirts and jackets can pose a strangulation hazard if caught in playground equipment while running around. Encourage children to tuck in loose edges and zip up their jackets.
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