Four Playground Hazards That Can Injure Your Kids
Playgrounds can be a safe, joyful place where children learn, dream, and burn off energy. But with that said, playgrounds can be seriously dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. Each year, thousands of children are treated in hospital emergency rooms for playground injuries–most of which could have been prevented. That’s why here at Patterson Legal Group, our Wichita personal injury lawyers would like to call your attention to some of the most common playground hazards as well as how you can protect your kids from them.
Four Playground Hazards to Be Aware Of
Over the years, we’ve been able to help out a large number of clients whose children suffered playground injuries. Here are the four most common playground hazards you should be aware of:
1. Insufficient Protective Surfacing
Of all playground hazards, the surface under the park equipment is probably the most overlooked. The most common source of playground injuries are slip and falls, and when kids fall on hard surfaces like concrete, asphalt, or even tightly packed dirt, the consequences can be disastrous.
Potential Injuries:
- Soft tissue injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Broken bones and fractures
- Sprains and bruises
What to Look For:
Check for soft, shock-absorbing surfaces like engineered wood fiber, rubber mulch, or poured-in-place rubber mats. These will cushion against falls and are extremely effective at reducing the risk of injury.
2. Protrusion and Entanglement Hazards
Exposed bolts, sharp points, or open hooks on play equipment can get lodged in children’s clothing, shoestrings, or even hair.
Potential Injuries:
- Deep cuts and lacerations
- Clothing entanglement leading to falls
- In extreme cases, strangulation
What to Look Out For:
Avoid equipment with “S” hooks that are not fully shut, bare screws or bolts, and any sharp edges. Ensure your child’s clothing is drawstring-free, especially around the neckline.
3. Entrapment Dangers
Entrapment occurs when a child’s arm, head, or torso is wedged into an opening–most often between ladders, ropes, or bars. Openings measuring 3.5 to 9 inches are particularly dangerous because they are large enough for the child’s body to fit through but are narrow enough for them to get their head stuck.
Possible Injuries:
- Head injuries
- Choking or suffocation
- Emotional trauma
What to Look For:
Examine equipment openings visually before letting your child play. If you find a gap that seems questionable, it’s wise to steer clear of it.
4. Poor Equipment Spacing
When too much playground equipment is clustered together, children will have a higher likelihood of bumping into other children or equipment. Poor spacing also limits the manner in which children can safely move around the play area.
Potential Injuries:
- Bumps and bruises
- Fracture-producing collisions
- Tripping or sudden impact falls
What to Look For:
There needs to be ample space between slides, swings, climbing equipment, and walking surfaces. Overcrowded or badly laid out play areas lead to a greater likelihood of accidents.
Contact a Kansas Playground Injury Attorney
Here at Patterson Legal Group, we’re happy to provide the information you need on playground hazards. We’re also here for you if your child has suffered playground injuries. Our dedicated team of trial lawyers has a proven track record of success in securing settlements for those hurt in premises liability injuries in Kansas, as well as in Missouri, Oklahoma and Colorado. We will fight for you every step of the way.
Get started today with a free consultation by calling us at 888-687-2400 or going online through our secure contact form. You can also connect with our LiveChat representatives. We work under a “No Win, No Fee” promise, so you won’t pay anything unless we win. Reach out today and take the first step towards the money you deserve.
