A safe playground has impact-absorbing surfaces that make running, jumping and climbing easier on kids. Look for sand, wood chips or shredded rubber as opposed to asphalt, concrete or grass, which are much harder and more likely to cause injuries when kids fall.

Also, choose a playground that has guardrails around raised surfaces to prevent falls. Inspect the equipment for open “S” hooks, protruding bolts and other hazards. Make sure there are no spaces that could trap kids, like openings between ladder rungs and between swings. Check that the surfacing material is 12 inches or more deep and is in good condition. Make sure that the equipment is free of rust, splintering wood and chipping or peeling paint. For advice on Playgrounds Cheltenham, visit https://www.greenfieldsltd.co.uk/services/playgrounds-and-parks/

Make sure the surface surrounding the playground is clear of tripping or falling hazards, like glass, cans, tree stumps and rocks. The area should also be free of rubbish, animal droppings and other dangerous materials. Also, beware of playgrounds with surfacing material made from wood chips or mulch, which may contain sharp points and pieces of broken equipment.

Make sure children have secured shoelaces and no strappy sandals or flip flops, which are more likely to get caught on equipment. Also, have them remove necklaces, scarves and drawstrings from their clothing before playing on equipment. Kids should also take off their bicycle helmets to prevent them from tripping or getting strangled by the straps.