by Marie N. Riddle

Created on: December 24, 2008   Last Updated: July 04, 2009

Your backyard swing set can be a great way for your children to play together and be active. The last thing any parent wants is for their child to be injured, and by keeping a few safety tips in mind you can reduce this risk and keep your child's playtime safe.

The first thing to take into consideration is the swing set itself. Keep these safety tips in mind when you select one. Make sure the swing seats are not made of wood or metal, they should be constructed of soft or hollow plastic to prevent serious injury if one should strike a child. All chains should be entirely covered with stiff plastic to prevent strangling and pinching. All platforms should have guardrails on all sides to prevent children from falling. There should not be any gaps between rails, ladder rungs, or any other parts that are not smaller than three inches or larger than nine inches because children can crawl into these and become trapped.

The construction and location of your swing set are also very important. Make sure the swing set is constructed on a level surface that is energy absorbent, such as mulch, sand, or shredded rubber. Or you might want to use a mat that is designed for use under swing sets. This material needs to surround your swing set by at least six feet, and your set needs to be at least six feet away from all walls, fences, and buildings. Make sure all tripping hazards like rocks, roots, and balls are removed, and routinely check for items like these. Follow ALL instructions when putting your swing set together, no matter how unimportant they seem. Cap and tighten all screws and bolts and check these regularly to make sure they are not loose. Never attach clotheslines, dog leashes, or any other ropes to your swing set because children may strangle. Read and follow all the additional safety tips in your swing set's manual.

It is also very important to supervise your children while they play on the swing set. Younger children should be supervised at all times, while older children can be taught swing set play rules. Use your discretion when deciding if your children are old enough to play safely, and keep the following safety tips in mind. Make sure children do not jump from platforms or swings. One child at a time should be in each swing seat, and they should not twist the chains or swing side-ways. They should never walk in front of swings or slides that are in use. Attached ladders are the only thing that should be climbed, never swings, chains, or rails. Slides should be used feet first only; do not allow your children to climb up them. Children should not push or trip each other.

Your swing set should be fun for your children; it doesn't have to be dangerous. By paying attention to swing set's design, location, construction, and following play safety rules you can keep your children safe while letting them enjoy outdoor play and exercise.

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