Keep Outdoor Play Safe All Winter Long
1) Address any surfaces that will collect ice
Take a walk around your outdoor play area and look for puddles, cracks, or dips. Anywhere that collects water can collect ice in the winter. Try to address or fill any areas of concern before they become a slippery risk.
2) Remove shade canopies
If you have not done so already, remove and store your canopies for the winter. Shade canopies are not designed to hold snow and risk damage or collapse in the winter.
3) Clear snow and ice regularly
Removing snow and ice as soon as you are able prevents build up which makes it easier to manage, safer to navigate, and can mitigate damage.
4) Monitor equipment and space
Be aware of your play equipment’s condition and monitor throughout the season. The cold can make equipment brittle and existing cracks worse. Replace and repair as needed. If safety surfacing is frozen, play equipment should be restricted accordingly.
5) Engage the children
Once the snow and ice has been removed from areas where it may be dangerous engage in snow play with the children. Show them how to look out for icy patches, safely move, and play with snow.
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