Backyard Recreation Safety

Playing outside is important as it helps with a child’s development, well-being and provides exercise. Watching your child while they are playing in the backyard is important because dangers can be present, especially if you have a swimming pool or trampoline. Owning a backyard pool comes with the responsibility of ensuring its safe use. Most often, children who drown do so in a pool when a caregiver is not paying attention, if only for a second. These drownings primarily involve young children who gain access to a pool without a self-closing and self-latching gate.

Pools

There are simple steps that families can follow to keep their
backyard pools safe.

Active adult supervision is of the utmost importance – never leave your child unattended, not even for a second.
Build a fence (recommended at least 1.2 m in height, with gaps no larger than 10 cm) that has a self-closing and self-latching gate; keep the gate closed with restricted access at all times. Refer to your municipal bylaws for fencing requirements.
Have an Action Plan including adult supervision, an emergency signal, safety equipment and emergency procedures.
Establish pool rules. These can include: swim with a buddy, children must have an adult with them at all times, and no glass containers around the pool.
Lifejackets or Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) should be worn by weak or non-swimmers.
Few backyard pools are safe for diving – swimmers should always enter the water feet-first.
Keep the deck clear of toys and debris to prevent trip and fall injuries.
Enroll your children in Red Cross swimming lessons.
Take your children with you if you have to leave the pool for any reason.

Trampolines

Trampolines are fun, but they are also responsible for a lot of injuries every year. There are several ways to ensure your family is safe on your trampoline.

Make sure your trampoline is set up at least three meters away from any potential dangers like trees, walls, poles, and fences and that it is placed on a level and stable surface.
If your trampoline doesn’t come with padded mats, it is a very good idea to add these, along with a safety net.
Check that the springs are securely attached and not loose or missing.
Check the mat to make sure there are no tears or holes.
Keep the trampoline free of toys, sticks and leaves to
prevent slips, trips or awkward landings.
Make sure there is nothing underneath the trampoline before jumping.
Never permit children to play on a wet trampoline.
Children under the age of six shouldn’t be allowed on trampolines due to a higher risk of injury.
No more than one person at a time. Multiple jumpers increase the chances of collision and injury.
No rough play while on the trampoline.
No older kids on the trampoline while little ones are using it.
Always make sure there is a responsible adult supervising children on a trampoline.
To prevent unauthorized access, consider locating the trampoline in a fenced area.