Once the weather turns nice, it’s off to the playground for many children.

Between the slides, swings, and places to climb, there’s plenty to keep them busy for hours.

Having a place to play and keep children occupied doesn’t mean supervision isn’t required.

Falls are the most common type of injury on a playground.

Lack of supervision or improper supervision is associated with about 45 percent of all playground-related injuries.

That’s why the WVU Medicine Children’s Injury Prevention and Safety Program encourages parents to always keep an eye on their kids and follow a few simple safety tips for a pleasant trip to the park.

Look for a safe environment

Playgrounds aren’t just in the local park. They can also be at schools or even in backyards.

No matter where you send your child off to play, make sure there are no hazards like broken equipment, sharp objects, or dangerous surfaces.

Ideally, you’ll want to choose a playground with sand, pea gravel, wood chips, mulch or shredded rubber, rubber mats, or synthetic turf below the playset.

Surfaces like asphalt, concrete, grass, dirt, or gravel don’t absorb impact during a fall.

Prep for the playground

We know that packing the kids up to go to the park can be a process.

You need water, snacks, sunscreen, extra clothes, and so much more.

While you’re getting dressed, remove any necklaces, purses, scarves, or clothing with drawstrings that can get caught in equipment and put children at risk of being strangled.

Part of the summertime wardrobe for everyone should be sunscreen. Look for an SPF of at least 30.

If you’re spending an extended amount of time in the sun, consider covering up with a hat and sunglasses to protect your skin. Kids can also take breaks under an umbrella or in the shade to cool off.

Make sure to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration or more serious conditions.

Remember, it’s not just the ones running around who can overheat. Infants in carriers can also be at risk.

If a baby is in a carrier with a drape or cover, be sure to open it. Those covers can retain heat and cause temperatures to soar to 110 degrees or higher. That means the infant could overheat in as little as 10 minutes.

Safety first!

While a lot of summertime activities have safety precautions, a little education for kids goes a long way.

Teach children that pushing, shoving, or crowding on playground equipment can be dangerous.

Since small children play differently than older children, consider separate play areas or educating the big kids about safe play.

After all, there’s nothing better than a swing on a sunny day, if you do it safely. Remember the WVU Medicine Children’s Injury Prevention and Safety Program is here to help your family stay safe this summer. You can reach the team at WVUMChildrensInjuryPrevention@WVUMedicine.org or 304-554-8519.