Guidelines for Playground Use

It is important that adults take the time to learn about playground safety for the sake of their children.

• Always select equipment appropriate for the child’s size and age.
• Children should always be supervised and instructed on proper use of equipment.
• Use correct grip (finger and thumb in a “lock grip”). Use both hands.
• Hold on with both hands as you go up the steps of the slide.
• Always slide down feet first in a sitting position.
• Always sit in the center of the swing; never stand or kneel. Hold on with both hands and stop swing before getting off. Never walk in front of a moving swing.
• On tot swings, don’t push too hard, making the child’s head snap back and forth.
• Never leave child unattended on any piece of equipment.

Please see the National Program for Playground Safety (NPPS) website for more information.

Playground Basic First Aid
Playground safety is greatly enhanced when parents, caregivers and children understand how to administer basic first aid. An online resource is available here.


NRPA Tips
The National Park and Recreation Association (NRPA) understands the importance of parks and recreation for communities, and has provided quick tips and information about playground safety:

• NRPA - Playground Safety Information
• NRPA Playground Safety News
• The Dirty Dozen Checklist
• Dirty Dozen Video