by Kevin O'Connell

Created on: December 23, 2008   Last Updated: December 30, 2008

The swing set has been the staple of backyard fun and exercise for children since the dawn of suburbia. Children are thrilled by the exhilaration of soaring through arching heights. They are challenged by scaling rungs that climb into towers with canvas canopies. They hang upside down by their knees from crossbars, and come sledding down adjoining slides.

Parents, however, realize any time a child climbs upon a swing set to test the limits of gravity there is chance for injury. With some forethought and consideration of the following safety tips mom and dad can rest assured that the children can play carefree.

Choosing a backyard location

The ideal location for a backyard swing set should be visibly enticing and inviting. Beneath the outstretched limbs of a shady tree will allow children to play hours on end without being exposed to the harsh rays of the sun. However, be sure there is sufficient enough room to avoid chance contact with the branches or bole, and that there are no exposed roots over which the children may trip. In addition, there should be sufficient distance from yard structures such as fences, sheds, decks, and pools.

Preparing the site

Care should be taken to ensure that the ground is leveled as to provide for the structural stability of the swing set. The site should be free of large rocks or stone, and a base of sand should be lain to promote drainage of rain water and to create a child friendly surface. The perimeter should allow for children to move safely and freely around the swing set.

Choosing a swing set

Unlike the aluminum swing sets of the past, today's sets are constructed of quality wood to ensure durability, safety, and eye appeal. Be sure to select a swing set that has heavy duty swing hangers that can be adjusted according to the size of the child. All chains should be vinyl coated to protect against rust and metallic splinters. The structure should be constructed with galvanized bolt and lag hardware so that children are not exposed to any protruding metal. All corners should be rounded and smooth. Additional structures such as slides and towers should consist of steps not rungs, UV protected plastics, child-safe railings and sides, and be devoid of conflicting play zones that may place children in unsafe proximity to one another. When installing the swing set be sure to follow all the manufacturer's recommendation.

Providing a safe base

A rubber mulch is the safest base to place beneath the swing set. This product is similar in appearance to cedar mulch but is made from discarded vehicle tires or similar material. Not only does it serve to cushion falls and leaps, but it provides for quality drainage and will not become too hot to the touch, a common concern with other types of matting.

These tips, coupled with parental supervision, will ensure that the backyard swing set will provide hours and hours of safe and carefree fun and physical activity.

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