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Wondering how you can make your backyard safe for kids? Want to be able to let your kids play outside while having peace of mind?
A great home is never complete without the presence of a comfortable backyard for kids to play in. Backyards are often synonymous with outdoor fun and recreation, especially in a home with children. The backyard is ideal for outdoor activities and is great for kids who love to run around and play outside. It’s also great for those summer days when your kids want to play in one of these great kid’s sprinklers.
However, while the backyard can be one of the most fun places for a kid to play, it could also pose a threat to their wellbeing. As a homeowner, you need to be aware of potential threats and do your best to mitigate some of the risks.
Luckily, we’re here to help. Below are a few valuable tips you can use to help you make your backyard safe for your kids.
1. Take a Close Look At Your Backyard
You never know how safe the backyard is until you take a closer look. It’s a good idea to take a walk around your yard from time to time to check for any potential hazards. Children are unpredictable, and they could get into deep trouble even without realizing it.
Before letting your kids play in the backyard, get rid of anything you deem dangerous such as garden tools, chemicals, ladders, or other items. Surveying your backyard will also help you spot flaws in the landscape, such as pots and holes that could cause serious falls.
Also, be on the lookout for signs of a pest infestation. Ants and wasps are particularly known for stinging and biting and can be dangerous. Children can easily become victims of pest attacks if you don’t watch out for nests and other signs of life.
2. Pay Attention to Wear and Tear of Equipment and Toys
Playgrounds and other pieces of toys and equipment can be a lot of fun for kids of all ages. However, you need to ensure that your kids are out of harm’s way by inspecting all of their toys and any structures in the backyard from time to time.
Swings, slides, and other toys can get damaged after a lot of wear and tear or if they have been out and exposed to the elements for an extended amount of time.
Be sure to fix any loose nuts and bolts, and repair damaged floors and railings before letting your kids play with outdoor equipment. Make sure you recognize when it’s time to throw something away or replace it entirely.
3. Start With Supervision
While some kids can be quite responsible, even at a young age, it’s always important to keep an eye on them. As adults, it’s great to give kids a bit of autonomy but there are also times when they should be watched closely.
Adult supervision is important for kids and is the best way to keep them safe when they are heading to the outdoors to play. In case of a mishap or an unexpected event, a parent should be ready to help.
Supervising kids adequately can help them to evade any potential dangers that may cause serious injuries. They can also supervise them during play and apply sunscreen or insect repellant as precautionary measures.
4. Install a Fence
While some kids are well-behaved, others are a bit more mischievous. If they’re feeling especially daring they may venture beyond their designated playing spot.
The consequences of doing so can be ugly, and if they get into any trouble, the parent is always liable and responsible for their actions. Other people’s property will have other dangers that are harder to control or plan for.
It’s a great idea to install a fence around your backyard with self-latching and self-closing gates. Doing so can give you peace of mind and will put an extra barrier between them and potential threats.
5. Have Strict Rules For the Pool
Letting your kids swim in the pool without taking proper precautions could pose a severe threat as well.
If your kids are left unsupervised, the pool can be dangerous and they could fall in. It’s always wise to place a fence around your backyard pool area and ensure kids aren’t playing around it or in it unsupervised.
If your children want to swim, ensure that they have the necessary gear and swimming wear to avoid drowning. Adult supervision should be mandatory when taking your children to enjoy the pool.
You can add another layer of protection by placing motion sensors in all of the pool access points to notify you if your child crosses the boundary into the pool area.
Final Thoughts
If you want your kids to stay as safe as possible while in the backyard, it’s best not to leave it all to chance. By following the simple tips and tricks above, you’ll be well on your way to making your backyard safe for kids while also giving them a great place to have fun and play with their friends.
Looking for ways to make your backyard the place to be? Take a look at this list to find some great games your kids can have fun playing in the backyard.
