Your backyard should be an epicenter of slip-and-slides, summer barbeques, and impromptu soccer matches where kids can play with little risk of a mishap that will lead to an injury. While 6,000 square feet of wide-open space may not set off alarm bells initially, investigating your outdoor living spaces for hidden hazards is a matter of summer fun or skinned knees.
Don’t let an accident ruin an afternoon of fun in your backyard. Avoid scrapes, cuts, and worse by taking these seven essential safety precautions that will guarantee a backyard that fulfills both fun and safety requirements.
Opt for grass seed turf over pavement
If kids slip, trip, or fall on pavement, injuries can result, including scrapes and broken bones. Pavement offers zero cushion for rambunctious little ones prone to falls. Not to mention, concrete slabs can be slippery when wet.
High-quality grass seed that has sprouted, by contrast, will serve as a safe play surface for risk-taking youngsters. Growing turf from grass seed simply requires a little raking, water, and seed. After dedicating the necessary time and elbow grease, your family can reap the benefits of a more visually appealing outdoor living space, complete with a grass lawn. Not only will this luscious green play pad boost your home’s curb appeal, but it will also reduce the noise emitted from squealing little ones and keep summer vacationers cool–even in record high temperatures.
Take note of dangerous plants
Some common plants such as azaleas, daffodils, and oleander are toxic if ingested. Other plants like pyracantha, holly, and cacti have thorns that can hurt children at play. When landscaping your backyard, keep safety in mind and choose plants that aren’t harmful or hazardous.
Keep snakes away
Snakebites are among the worst of backyard mishaps. Keep snakes out of your backyard by keeping grass trimmed, installing a fence around your backyard, and closing any cracks or crevices where snakes or other wildlife could get through.
Fence your pool
A swimming pool or hot tub can be a fun backyard addition for everyone, but water can be a drowning hazard. To make water features such as a pool, hot tub, or fountain child-safe, make sure the pool or hot tub is fenced and that a fountain is out of children’s reach.
Check for the sturdiness of structures
Inspect outdoor structures such as porches, decks, swing sets, tree houses, and gazebos for wear and tear, signs of termites and carpenter ants, or instability. If you find weaknesses, make repairs immediately to prevent possible injuries.
Don’t let bugs bug you
Insects are small, but they inflict painful stings and bites. Watch your yard for signs of wasps, fire ants, and other insects that could be a hazard for children at play. Stings can be painful and can trigger allergic reactions. You can control pests with products designed to kill their nests or mounds or contact a local pest control service.
Keep grown-ups’ toys secured
Make grills, power tools, and other things that adults use in the backyard off-limits to children. When not using power tools, grills, and grilling tools, keep them stored and out of children’s reach. When cooking outdoors or using power tools, make sure children are a safe distance away.
Have a mishap-free backyard
Let all ages enjoy your backyard by taking these seven simple steps to keep your backyard free from safety hazards. By taking these precautions and keeping a close eye on children at play, you can make your backyard a fun and safe place for everyone to enjoy.
