Shriners Children’s Spokane Shares Tips to Prevent Playground Injuries

With the return to warmer weather, more children will be heading outside to hit the local playgrounds. The Shriners Children’s Spokane staff is here to help children play safe and reduce injuries.

Playground accidents are some of the more common and potentially life-altering childhood injuries that can occur during this time of year.

To highlight National Playground Safety Week April 25-29, recreational therapists at Shriners Children’s Spokane urge parents and caregivers to keep these simple precautions in mind to help reduce playground injuries:

• Always provide adult supervision on the playground.
• Check that the playground equipment isn’t too hot or wet.
  • On a hot day, playground equipment can absorb a lot of heat. Children can sustain burns while playing.
  • Wet playground equipment can be slippery and lead to falls and other injuries.
• Wear proper footwear.
  • Wear protective shoes so hazards on the ground cannot pierce or cut the feet.
• Thoroughly check the playground for hazards.
  • There can be dangerous items left in playgrounds; glass, needles, etc. Be aware of what is on and around the play area.
• Slide feet first and swing sitting down.
• Protect yourself from the sun with a hat and sunscreen.
• Bring water with you.
  • Having easy access to water can prevent you and your children from becoming dehydrated and overheated.

At Shriners Children's Spokane, we have a team of physicians and specialists who are highly-trained and experienced in pediatric orthopedics. Contact Shriners Children’s Spokane to learn about the individualized, specialty pediatric care. All treatment and services are provided regardless of families’ ability to pay.