How safe is your backyard? One of the best parts of having a backyard is having a fun place to enjoy with your family. However, did you know your backyard might be more dangerous than you think?
There are a lot of things that can go wrong in your backyard. For example, falls are the leading causes of injury amongst children, and these primarily happen in the backyard. While your outdoor space might be synonymous with summer fun, make sure you’re being safe when your family is out in the backyard. Follow these tips below to make sure you have a safe, fun summer in your backyard.
1. Create Safety Rules
The first step is to start with clear rules for your kids. We all know that kids are prone to playing a bit recklessly if they’re given free rein. Before summer starts, talk to your kids about playing outdoors safely. Write the rules somewhere the kids can see and refer back to. Some safety rule ideas are:
- Use all play equipment properly
- Always tell an adult before going outside
- Don’t chase, push, or roughhouse while playing outside
- Wear close-toed shoes and outdoor clothes
- Stay away from off-limits areas like storage sheds or the garage
- Look out for backyard pests and insects
This is a great start to a comprehensive list, but make sure you add specifics that suit your own backyard.
2. Clean Your Yard
A clean yard is a safe yard. If your yard has a lot of debris and isn’t well maintained, it might become a breeding ground for pests. More importantly, items like gardening tools and chemicals can be unsafe for kids to be around.
Always take a look at your yard before kids play to make sure it’s a safe space. If you have outdoor play areas and toys, make sure they’re clear of debris and structurally sound. Finally, keep an eye on pests. The most popular time of year for pests is the summertime, so hire an expert if you’re worried your yard might have a pest problem.
3. Build a Fence
Fences are a great way to add more safety to your yard. The best types of fences are those that self-latch or self-close so pets and kids are less able to escape freely. Installing a fence around your yard will give you peace of mind that your kids and pets are in an enclosed, safe space. In addition, a fence is a great way to improve your home value.
4. Beware Your Pool
Did you know that pools are extremely dangerous to kids? According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, from Memorial Day through Labor Day in 2018, at least 148 children under 15 fatally drowned in swimming pools or spas. This is a scary number, and it’s not something you want to happen in your home.
You can improve the security around your pool to prevent accidents. Installing a pool gate as well as using home safety gadgets can keep your pool area safe. If you have a hot tub, make sure the cover is securely latched when it’s not in use. Most importantly, teach kids how to swim early on so they know what to do if they fall in.
5. Skip the Trampoline
One of the most dangerous things you could have in a backyard is a trampoline. These might be a lot of fun when used properly, but they’re notoriously risky. They send kids and adults alike to the emergency room every year, and they’re often associated with broken bones. It’s simply not worth the risk, so skip the trampoline this summer if you can.
6. Supervise Your Kids
Last but not least, the best way to keep a safe backyard for your family is to simply supervise your kids. Older kids might be able to be left alone in the backyard, but younger kids should always be supervised. These young kids have a hard time recognizing potentially dangerous situations, so accidents are prone to occur.
Supervising your kids in the backyard can be a great way to watch out for accidents and make sure your kids are taking breaks and staying hydrated. Why not join in on the fun yourself?
Enjoy Your Safe Backyard
A safe backyard is a fun backyard. Just make sure you’ve taken care of all of the tips above. From pests to play equipment, there’s a lot of different things to worry about in the summer months and beyond.
Make sure your backyard is a fun place for everyone this summer by supervising your kids and being careful. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, especially when the risks of backyard accidents are so high. Is your backyard ready for summer?