Light evenings, BBQs, long days spent in the sunshine and freedom from school and work (mostly) – there’s very little that can beat the excitement and enjoyment that summertime brings each year.
Summer is the best time of year for our little ones. Why? Because they spend more time outdoors, they’re exploring nature, meeting with friends, getting exercise, igniting their imaginations and spending time away from screens. However, it’s also the most common time of year for freak accidents and unplanned trips to the emergency room.
Sadly, most of these emergency visits to the hospital are the direct result of summer and garden toys. It’s easy to think that user-error is to blame and that the children involved aren’t playing responsibly, however that’s not always the case. Some garden toys are classed as inherently dangerous and parents are advised to exercise caution when considering a purchase. Speak to a Spartanburg personal injury law firm if your child has been injured by a faulty product. Here we’ll take a look at some of the most dangerous summer toys that all parents should be wary of:
Pogo Sticks
I think most of us knew a kid with a pogo stick when we were younger. Even though most of us couldn’t get one single hop out of them, it still doesn’t mean that they’re safe. Did you know that you should always wear a helmet if you ride a pogo stick? If you suddenly fall from a great height or the stick slips from under you, you’re likely to hit your head on the ground. Falling from a pogo stick can also mean broken bones, fractures and other health issues. Think twice before you let your child ride a pogo stick.
Trampolines
Who doesn’t love a bounce on a trampoline? Seeing who can bounce the highest, do a turn in the air or pull off a stunt? Sadly, trampolines are a leading cause of summer accidents, with broken bones, fractures and even whiplash sending children to the emergency room. Protective netting around a trampoline is the best way to prevent falls and encouraging children to be sensible will also reduce the risk of injuries.
Swing Sets
It’s always great to bring the enjoyment of the park to your back yard. And installing a swing set for your kids is simple and budget-friendly. Sadly, swing sets and other outdoor play frames are often the cause of accidents in children. Faulty components, damaged structures and worn parts can all result in injuries that aren't the child's fault. Also, when children jump from the structures, or they’re placed underneath trees children are also more likely to become injured.
And Finally, Paddling Pools
There’s nothing better than cooling off in the pool on a hot summers’ day. So, having your own private paddling pool for your kids is a great way to avoid the crowds and have fun. Sadly, when not supervised correctly, children are at risk of drowning. Also, faulty pools that deflate can make the structure unstable, leaving the child unbalanced or at risk of falling into the pool unexpectedly.
