PLAYGROUND SAFETY: FIVE WAYS ARTIFICIAL GRASS KEEPS CHILDREN SAFE
Even under adult supervision, children can sometimes take playtime a little bit too far. Although scraped knees and scratched elbows are all part of growing up, it’s natural reflex for parents to protect their little ones. Reducing risks for injuries should be a top priority in every community. One of the most effective precautions is installing artificial grass in playgrounds and schoolyards in Portland and everywhere else.
That’s right; synthetic grass isn’t just for gardens, football fields, pet facilities or golf courses. Modern artificial turf technologies are now transforming playgrounds into safer recreational areas for children. Here’s what makes artificial grass the best choice compared to other types of play surfaces out there like gravel, sand, concrete and even natural grass.
ELIMINATES TRIPPING HAZARD
Nothing makes a lawn more unappealing than bald patches and pockmarks. Aside from making your yard uglier, these scattered holes also become tripping hazards. Children can fall and injure themselves while playing. Rain will also turn these unsightly blemishes into muddy puddles. There’s no risk of all that with synthetic turf since it is designed to withstand heavy foot traffic. The playground will remain level and smooth everywhere so children can have hours of uninterrupted fun.
PREVENTS SLIPPING ACCIDENTS
Freshly watered natural grass and rowdy children is a recipe for disaster. Water just doesn’t get drained fast enough, making the playground a slipping accident waiting to happen. Rather than suspend playtime due to wet grass and muddy soil, you can just install artificial turf. The base layer of artificial grass drains water almost immediately so it can be used as soon as possible. Rain or shine, playgrounds will remain completely safe.
SERVES AS CUSHION FOR FALLS
Even if your children are less likely to trip on their own feet, they can still fall off from the various playground structures. One bad grab at the monkey bars or a fast trip down the slide can result in painful tumbles. Fortunately, synthetic grass provides more cushion for softer landings. It can serve as a shock pad that absorbs the impact of the fall. Some types of artificial turf can even protect against falls of up to three meters, making them ideal to install around playground equipment.
AVOIDS TOXIC EXPOSURE
Toxic substances that can causes severe health problems should be kept far away from schools, playgrounds and other environments children spend time in. Although natural grass is all organic, it still requires fertilizers and herbicides for routine upkeep. Both of these contain toxic elements that could put your child in harm’s way. Synthetic grass, on the other hand, needs neither since a good hosing down from time to time is sufficient enough. Some artificial grass types also have antimicrobial properties for increased protection.
WARDS OFF ALLERGIES
Some experts say that children should play outside for three hours everyday to remain healthy. Unfortunately, this is a tall order for some during the dreaded allergy season. Children who have allergies will want to remain indoors when the pollen count is high. After all, they won’t enjoy playing with a runny nose or itchy eyes. Artificial grass is specifically designed to help allergy sufferers by using allergen-free materials in its construction. No more mowing also means less pollen in the air so children can breathe easier.
Children’s safety is a serious issue that needs to be addressed. Playgrounds should serve as a place of fun and practical learning, not health risks and injuries. Although it might take a significant amount of effort, trading in unsafe play surfaces for professionally installed artificial turf is well worth investment. Talk to an artificial turf installation company like Portland Artificial Grass to learn about your options.
Sources:
Parks and Playgrounds Use Synthetic Grass to Increase Activity Levels for Preschoolers, SyntheticTurfCouncil.org
5 Ways to Add Outdoor Play to Your Yard, PlaygroundProfessionals.com