As summer continues and families spend more time outside, backyards become a great place for activities for people of all ages. Whether you enjoy grilling, swimming, jumping on the trampoline or enjoying company by the fire pit, the backyard can create a welcoming space for relaxation and entertainment. Although, without proper precautions, your backyard can present many safety risks.
National Backyard Safety Day is the annual reminder to check out your outdoor space and ensure it is safe for your family, friends and neighbors. By taking a few preventative measures in your own backyard, you can help reduce accidents, protect the people you love, and have peace of mind all summer long.
Pool Safety
Swimming pools are a nice place to play, exercise, or cool off, but they also require careful supervision and maintenance.
Install secure fencing with lockable gates to prevent unsupervised access, especially for children and pets
Keep lifesaving equipment nearby including flotation devices and a first aid kit.
Check drains, filters and chemical levels so your pool remains safe and clean.
No one should ever swim alone, no matter how experienced.
Grill and Fire Pit Safety
Backyard cookouts are a yummy summer tradition, but if not handled properly, grills and fire pits can quickly become fire hazards.
Place grills on a stable surface away from your home, siding, railings, trees, or outdoor furniture.
Never leave a grill unattended while cooking.
For propane grills, check gas lines for leaks or damage.
For wood-burning fire pits, keep a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher close by.
Ensure the fire is fully extinguished before leaving the area.
Play Areas
Keep play equipment like swing sets, trampolines, and playhouses safe to reduce chances of accidents and injuries.
Inspect play equipment regularly for damage, rust or loose bolts.
Trampolines: consider installing safety nets or padding. Limiting to one jumper at a time can reduce collisions and falls.
Clean up and reduce clutter in your yard to reduce trips and falls. Store hoses, tools and toys when not in use.
Outdoor Lighting
Well-lit outdoor spaces help improve visibility and reduce accidents after dark.
Pathways, stairs, and entries should be clearly lit to move safely around your property.
Ensure decorative lights are outdoor-use and weatherproof, not indoor-use only.
Extension cords: choose colors like yellow or orange to improve visibility and reduce tripping.
Summer should be about making memories, not dealing with preventable accidents. Take a few extra moments on this National Backyard Safety Day to make safety a priority and ensure your backyard is ready for the summer fun all season long.