Do you have young children and are worried about the potential dangers that come with them playing in your garden?
Of course, there are obvious issues in gardens. If there are trampolines or other play features, as a parent, you have to make sure that the equipment is safe and that you keep an eye on them when they are using it.
However, there are some other factors that may need to be considered to keep your outdoor space safe, and here, you will be guided through what you can do to keep your garden secure.
Keep The Grass Cut
As any parent will tell you, young kids find a way to trip over anything.
If you have uncut grass in your garden, you should aim to cut it down to eliminate it as a trip hazard. Overgrown grass can also be a spot for potentially dangerous animals to hide in, such as snakes, so trimming it will help you better understand what is in your garden when your kids go out to play. It’s also worth looking into zero-turn mowers for sale if you have a large lawn and pets like dogs or cats, as the last thing you want is your kids walking in kitty or dog mess!
Secure Boundaries
Children are, by their nature, naturally curious, and if there are no garden boundaries (or there are loose ones), then they may wander off. This can occur through gaps in the fence, unlocked gates, or issues with walls.
So, be sure to inspect your garden perimeter to make sure that there are no gaps or openings that your child or children can squeeze through. Make sure that all latches and bolts are out of reach, and if needed, install a camera facing the garden that will allow you to monitor them from inside the home.
Remove Hazardous Plants and Materials
Many people are surprised to learn that many garden plants are potentially toxic to children. Of course, some plants could be thorny, and with sharp garden tools, this can also pose a risk.
So, take some time to identify toxic plants and make sure that you are actively planting child-friendly plants, like sunflowers, marigolds, and lavender. Make sure that any sharp tools, fertilizers, or chemicals are stored in a shed or an internal high cabinet where children cannot reach them.
Create a Designated Play Area
A designated play area will not only help keep your kids entertained but it will also limit their interaction with parts of the garden that may be unsafe. You can set up a space with child-based swings, slides, and sandpits. Ensure that the area is shaded from UV rays and make sure that you regularly check the play equipment to make sure that it is safe.
Water Safety First
If you have water features like ponds or fountains, it can pose drowning risks to younger children.
If you have a pond, cover it with sturdy mesh or a safety cover. If you can, it may also be worth setting up a pool alarm so that you will be alerted if there is any motion near water features. If you are setting up paddling pools for hotter weather, be sure to drain them when they are not in use, as this will prevent water-based issues and will also help with general water hygiene.
