It’s summer, and for many of us, this means spending fun-filled days in the garden with the kids. We all like to make the most of our outdoor space in the warmer months. The challenge is creating a family-friendly backyard, which is fun, but also safe for kids. If you’re a parent, you’ll know how important it is to have peace of mind when the kids are playing out back. Here are some considerations every parent should bear in mind to make their garden safer.
Pools, ponds and hot tubs
Water features are a beautiful addition to any garden, and many of us love to splash around and have fun in the pool in the summer. As enjoyable as a soak in the hot tub or a swim in the pool can be, there are also risks involved. It’s possible for children to drown in incredibly shallow water. Even if you think your child is a strong swimmer, they should never be left unsupervised in the pool. Hot tubs are generally only recommended for adults or older children. If you have a tub in the garden, don’t hesitate to research hot tub advice online or contact the manufacturer. If you have young kids, make sure the tub is locked.
If you have a pond in the garden, it’s always wise to fence it off if you have children. This will prevent any unwanted accidents and show them that they shouldn’t be going near it, especially if you’re not with them.
Image source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/_tar0_/7061169783
Paving and pathways
Slips and trips are part and parcel of life with kids. It’s not possible to prevent every minor fall. But there are steps you can take to try and reduce the risk of garden accidents. Check your paving stones and pathways. If they are uneven or damaged, this can increase the risk of injuries. If you have young children, it’s best to go for an even, smooth surface. Make sure your children have well-fitted shoes with grip when they’re playing in the backyard. Whizzing around in flip-flops is likely to result in falls.
Image source: https://pixabay.com/en/photos/paving%20stones/
Barbecue safety
Many of us love to gather friends and family around and light the barbecue in the summer months. If you are hosting, make sure the grill is located far away from where the kids are playing. Don’t leave the barbecue unattended and remove any potential obstacles from the immediate area. The last thing you want is a game of tag turning into a trip to the local ER. When you’re cooking, make sure you’re in an open or well-ventilated area.
Image courtesy of https://www.pexels.com/search/barbecue/
As a parent, your child’s safety is always at the forefront of your mind. If you’re looking forward to sunny days in the garden, bear these tips in mind. Kids are incredibly resilient, but prevention is always better than cure. Take steps to secure the garden and cover tubs, ponds and pools. Keep an eye on young children at all times, and make sure your garden is in good repair. If you notice damaged paving stones or splintered fencing, carry out repairs as quickly as possible.
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