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Run, jump and climb — safely

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Young boy kicking soccer ball

More than 200,000 preschool and elementary children are rushed into emergency rooms every year for injuries suffered on playgrounds, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Most injuries involve falls.

CONSIDER THESE SAFETY TIPS:

  • Actively supervise children on playgrounds and avoid distractions.
  • Make sure the playground equipment is age appropriate without hazards, such as rusted or broken equipment.
  • Use playgrounds with shock-absorbing surfaces such as rubber, synthetic turf, sand, wood chips or mulch. If your child falls, the landing will be more cushioned than on asphalt, concrete, grass or dirt.
  • Teach your children to behave respectfully on the playground and take turns.
  • Dress children in appropriate clothing to avoid loose articles, such as necklaces or scarves, that can get caught on the equipment.
  • It’s best for little kids and big kids to play in separate areas.
SOURCES:

• Consumer Product Safety Commission
• Safe Kids Worldwide

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Related resources

    • Parenting
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    Safe Kids Palm Beach County

    Local child safety information and assistance, including car seat installation, bike helmet fitting, poisoning prevention, TV tip-over prevention and more

    561-841-3500 ext. 4011 Website
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    Safe Kids Worldwide

    National resources to protect children from preventable injuries

    202-662-0600 Website
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    Palm Beach County Medical Society

    List of local hospitals

    561-433-3940 Website