Why You Should Inspect Playgrounds Before Your Kids Play - Everything Alabama Blog

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Published: Friday, February 11, 2011, 3:36 PM Updated: Friday, February 11, 2011, 4:07 PM

WARNING THIS IS GROSS. SO IF YOU HAVE A WEAK STOMACH DON'T READ THE INTRO -- SKIP IT.

A couple of Saturdays ago the weather was so beautiful. That was until my daughter put her hand in throw-up at a Birmingham-area playground. I won't say the name. It was a first time visit for the kids and the bright colored playground equipment was super enticing to my three little ones.

They bum rushed the steps and were onto the cargo net before I could say stop and let me check it out.

All of the sudden other kids were screaming "someone got sick over there, someone threw up right there."

I looked and my daughter had it on her hands and on her shoes.

I carry two bottles of hand sanitizer on my person at all times.

All of which were poured over my daughter. (I'm kidding, slightly)

It completely ruined the trip to the playground.

Here's what I should have done:

1. I should have stopped my kids quicker. -- They run so quickly and are so excited but I should still stop them and look at the handles, the gadgets, the seats, the decks, the slides and so on.

2. If your child does get sick what are you to do? Well I would have appreciated it if the parent had cleaned up the mess but I understand sometimes things happen. Carrying some wipes is always a good idea with little ones. Not to sound preachy, but just because they are older, doesn't mean you have to stop using wipes.

3. I understand that germs are everywhere that's why they get a bath after playing at the playground. However be aware that some kids (and no fault of the parents) don't think about what they do or what they wipe or put on the gear where your child is about to play. (Think what would a kid do and you'll find it)

4. Remember those wipes? It's not a bad idea to give a quick wipe down on swing handles, seats etc.
Don't get me wrong I'm not out there disinfecting the playground, but I do spot check it. (Just like you would at a restaurant or any other public place, buggies at the store etc.)

UAB PLAYGROUND CHECKLIST --

As we head into the playground season read over this article from Hannah Wolfson. She features UAB's inspection of playgrounds. It includes tips on what to look for safety wise (in addition to the germs!)

Go here to check it out.

Here are some key points:
SOME THINGS TO LOOK FOR
TO MAKE SURE YOUR
PLAYGROUND IS SAFE:
>> Bolt ends, screws and other hardware don't protrude, which would allow them to catch on clothes.
>> Boards are smooth, unsplintered and uncracked, with screws flush or inset, and playground equipment is securely anchored.
>> Swings are suspended by chain or cable free of rust or fraying, seats are properly hung at least two feet apart and 30 inches from adjacent structures.
>> Stairways and ladders have handrails or alternate means of hand support.
>> Digging sand is at least 5 inches deep, shaded, covered when not in use and regularly replaced.

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Saturday, February 12, 2011