Healthy Habits: Summer Safety

Have you ever paid attention to the tag on your electric appliances, the one that has the UL logo on it? Underwriters Laboratories does more than just make sure electrical appliances are safe. They also conduct campaigns to help keep consumers safe in their everyday lives. If you go to the consumer page you can find tips on everything from college safety, to safety tips by room, and more. They've partnered with Disney to create a pool safety video that is worth watching for anyone - whether or not you have a pool.

Here are some important play set safety tips from the UL as well.

BEFORE INSTALLING A BACKYARD PLAY SET…
- Make sure your backyard is large enough for playground equipment. The site must also provide good visibility and security. Before setting up equipment, look out for obstacles, such as the garage, tree branches, utility poles and wires.
- Read and follow the manufacturer’s directions when setting up play set equipment. Be sure your child's weight and age fall within the manufacturer's recommended limits for the equipment.
- Install protective surfacing, such as rubber tiles or mulch under the play set, at least six feed in all directions, to prevent serious injuries should a child fall.

BEFORE HEADING OUT TO PLAY…
- Carefully inspect backyard playground equipment. Make sure equipment is anchored safely in the ground, all equipment pieces are in good working order, S-hooks are entirely closed and bolts are not protruding.
- Check for spaces that could trap children, such as openings in guardrails or between ladder rungs. These spaces should measure less than 3.5 inches or more than 9 inches.
Always supervise children on play set equipment to make sure they are playing safely.
- Never attach ropes, jump ropes, clotheslines, pet leashes or cords of any kind to play set equipment. If used improperly, they can be potential strangulation hazards.
- Watch for potential trip hazards, such as rocks, tree stumps and concrete footings. Make sure your children are aware of them as well.
- Do a sandbox check. Before letting your child dig in, rake through the sand to check for debris or sharp objects. Also, inspect for any animal contamination or insect problems.

Be sure to visit the site for more safety tips. They may seem like common sense, but it's worth refreshing yourself - it takes just a few minutes and can help you keep your kid safe.

“I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Underwriters Laboratories. Mom Central sent me a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.”