Installing a playground set in your backyard gives your kids hours of outdoor fun. However, as with any activity, there's some risk that comes with this equipment. Setting some safety rules and helping your kids use the set properly reduces the risk of injury and keeps playtime fun for everyone.

How to Make Your Playground Set Safe

1. Have the Equipment Professionally Installed

Backyard playground sets can be complex to install, often taking several people a few days to properly put it together. Unless you're experienced, it's best to leave this job to the professionals. They have experience with the sets, as well as the proper tools and knowledge to ensure it's put together correctly. Factory-installed sets also carry a warranty that few others can match, such as Swing Kingdom® playsets that have 20-year warranties, which can't be beat.

2. Position Everything Properly

Placing your swing set in the correct location is vital to safety. For instance, swings need at least six feet of clearance in both directions. Choose a location for the set that not only has plenty of space, but is also visible from different spots. Children should be supervised while playing, so you want to be sure you have a clear line of sight from wherever you may be in the yard. 

3. Establish Rules

Before your children are allowed to play on the new playground set, establish clear rules about what is and isn't allowed. For example, children should always sit on swings, so don't allow standing, kneeling, or jumping off. When using the slide, they should always go feet first and avoid climbing up. Also, never allow your children to use the set unsupervised, and set clear ground rules about how many kids can be on the set at once.

4. Demonstrate Proper Use

Help your kids play on their new playset safely by demonstrating how to use it correctly. For example, teach your kids not to walk in front of or behind swings, and give them a visual marker to indicate a safe distance from the swing when someone's on it. Also, show them how to climb the structure using both hands, and demonstrate safe ways to get down.

5. Inspect Before Playing

Before letting your children play on the equipment, conduct a visual inspection to make sure there aren't any obvious hazards. For instance, make sure the area at the bottom of the slide is clear, nothing is broken, and there aren't any screws or bolts protruding. If there's an issue, fix it right away.

If you’re looking for a safe, high-quality playground set for your children, turn to Cricket on the Hearth Inc. For 50 years, their knowledgeable staff has helped families in Rochester and Monroe counties, NY, select and install the perfect playsets. Stop in to their play yard, where your children can try out different sets, or visit them online to design your own in the Swing Kingdom Design Center. To speak with a team member, call (585) 385-2420.