Making Playgrounds Safer
If you have a child who has recently headed back to school, take some time to inspect the school playground and outdoor activity areas. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports there are about 20 playground-related fatalities each year, and over 200,000 children suffer injuries on a playground annually. Eighty-one percent of all playground injuries occur as a result of a fall.
One proven method for reducing these injuries is by installing softer ground coverings. However, it is estimated that as many as 92 percent of American playgrounds do not have adequate ground cover.
One innovative, non-toxic surface is made of shredded and recycled tires. This material outperforms all other surface materials in impact absorption. The material can be produced in a variety of colors and lasts for up to 50 years, saving in maintenance costs for schools.
If your child’s playground has a hard, dangerous surface, take the time to talk to your school official, requesting that a material such as recycled tires be used to replace the ground cover. It is a good idea to educate other parents and teachers on ways the playground can be made as safe as possible, starting from the ground up.