How Safe is Your Backyard?

You probably think of your backyard as a haven from the stresses and dangers of the world. It’s a place to relax, barbecue a couple of steaks, do a little gardening, and perhaps watch the birds and butterflies. But is it a safe place for your child or grandchild? Is it a safe place for your neighbor’s child? A backyard accident could plunge you into emotional despair and financial ruin.

1. Play equipment. Figures from the Consumer Product Safety Commission reveal that over 200,000 children are injured each year on playground equipment. Most of those could have been prevented by adult supervision, and proper installation of equipment. If you have a swing set or other equipment, make sure that it is properly installed and maintained. Swing sets should be at least six feet from fences and buildings. They should also be anchored securely below ground to prevent tip over. The surface underneath swings or climbing equipment should be sand or other soft material. Check equipment every month for cracks, rusting, sharp edges, or other hazards.
    

2. Lawn mower. Stones, glass, twigs, and wire can become dangerous projectiles as they come flying off of a whirling mower blade. Children should remain in the house or at a safe distance while you mow the lawn. You should also store the mower where children cannot play with it.
    

3. Gardening tools and chemicals. Most gardening tools and all chemicals should be kept out of the reach of children, and preferably in a locked cabinet. Fertilizers, herbicides, and insecticides are all poisonous to young children
    

4. Automotive tools and chemicals. You may not think of these as dangerous, but it’s wise to keep them out of reach. Carburetor cleaners, oils, and additives can be just as dangerous as those household cleaners you’re so careful to hide.
    

5. Barbecue supplies. Remind children of the dangers of a hot barbecue grill. Keep lighter fluid and briquettes out of reach. Store propane tanks safely.
    

6. Poisonous plants. You can get a list of poisonous plants from the internet or your local library. Make sure you know what poison oak or ivy looks like. Some other common plants with poisonous parts include azalea, caladium, daffodil, hyacinth, oleander, spider lily, and sweet pea. Preschoolers are especially prone to taste almost anything so you may need to remove hazardous plants or erect a fence to keep your child from danger.

-Mary Maurer

Mary E. Maurer... is an elementary teacher with a Master’s degree in education. Her work has appeared in Growing Parent, Texas Childcare, Mailbox, Lollipops, Instructor, Totline, Parenting, Flower & Garden, Texas Gardener, The Writer, Baby Talk, Pentecostal Evangel, Parent Life, Pockets, Children's Playmate, Birds and Blooms, The Dallas Morning News, and numerous others.