Trampolines
Trampolines can make children and adults of all ages jump for joy. But backyard trampoline injuries result in more than 100,000 emergency room visits a year, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission — making them a leading cause of backyard injuries.
Here are some tips to improve trampoline safety. Start each year by regularly checking the condition of your trampoline fabric and springs. Check that your trampoline has shock-absorbing pads that fully cover the frame, hooks and springs, and avoid ladders that could give young children unsupervised access. Safety equipment such as additional cages can prevent your little porpoises from bouncing off.
You don̵
7;t have to be the “fun police,” but some common sense safety rules can go a long way in preventing injuries. Consider setting some ground rules such as only one jumper at a time, no somersaults or “double bounces”.Pools
During the hot summer months, you can’t cool off with a refreshing dip in the pool. But remember that pool safety is an important component of home safety.
Install fencing that is at least four feet high and has self-locking, self-closing gates. Check and repair pool drain and suction caps regularly to prevent accidental jamming. Supervise children at all times and never let anyone swim alone. Have a pool hook, plenty of life jackets, a ring buoy with a line and a phone nearby. Don’t forget to use a pool cover when the fun is over. One last tip to keep in mind: Remember, it’s a good idea for all pool owners to know the basics of CPR.
Tree house
The tree house is an icon of fun in the garden, offering children hours of entertainment and adventure. But since treehouses are often DIY projects, it’s important to make sure they’re a safe place for kids to play.
Choose a strong, sturdy tree that is well away from electrical lines. Keep the house lower than 10 feet off the ground with a solid barrier wall at least 38 inches high. Do not hang ropes or chains that could pose a strangulation hazard and spread lots of compost under the treehouse. Every spring, check the treehouse and branches supporting it for rot or wear and make necessary repairs. You should also be on the lookout for poisonous plants such as poison ivy, which can climb trees like a vine.
Fire pits
For many, having a fire means spending time with family, friends, and (hopefully) indulging in some S’mores. But whether it’s a fireplace or a gas grill, open flames are always a safety hazard. Place fire pit on a non-combustible surface (patio, block, concrete) and never place fire pit directly on grass. Keep the fire small and do not use gas or lighter fluid to light it. Make sure it’s completely off before turning in for the night.
One more thing
Anxiety can prevent you from enjoying what is important. Rest easy knowing your insurance coverage can keep up with the lifestyle you’ve worked so hard to build.
The truth is that even the most safety-minded among us may one day face a personal injury or liability lawsuit. It’s a scary prospect because payments for hospital bills, rehabilitation, lost wages, pain and suffering, and litigation could potentially wipe out your entire net worth—and even your future earnings.
Fortunately, ERIE offers affordable umbrella policies. An umbrella policy adds an extra $1 to $5 million to both your auto and homeowner’s liability limits.
A $1 million umbrella policy typically offers the average person enough protection for about $150 or $200 more per year.
Contact us to discuss your coverage options and help you find the right fit.
Long summer days can keep the kids busy for hours in your backyard. (Where do they get all that energy!?)
Whether your garden has a simple swing set or a brand new in-ground pool, it’s the parents’ job to check that everything is in good condition – and set some ground rules for safety.
Unfortunately, it only takes one small slip to ruin the fun. Each year, more than 200,000 children are treated in emergency departments for playground-related injuries. Fortunately, you can prevent many of them if you know what to look for around your backyard. Not sure where to start? Follow this list.
The Ultimate Backyard Safety Checklist
Swing positions
If you have small children, there’s a chance that swings or an outdoor play area are in your backyard. But did you know that a few small changes can make a big difference in protecting your children?
To begin, install your playground equipment on level ground and, if possible, set it in concrete for added stability. Then add energy-absorbing materials such as sand, rubber compost, or wood chips under the set to help cushion falls. Choose rocking chairs made of a soft material such as rubber or plastic instead of wood or metal. And check regularly to make sure no screws or bolts are open, rusted or broken.
If your playset is made of wood, inspect the frame for wood rot and other signs of decay.
On warm, sunny days, play equipment – both metal and plastic! – can be heated to temperatures high enough to cause second degree burns. Build your playset in the shade if you can. Aim to schedule playtime for cooler hours of the day (such as early morning or late evening), and prevent burns by checking the temperature of slides and swings before children go outside to play.
Source link
