For children, the winter season is particularly magical. Not only are they captivated by the splendor of the holidays, but there's nothing that excites them more than a fresh snowfall. When weather permits, their teachers are still apt to send them out onto the playground, because they need to burn energy in order to focus for the rest of the day.
Unfortunately, there are moments of tragedy amid all of this winter fun. According to KTLA-5 story, a 6-year-old girl was happily playing on a swing set on a Colorado playground in December 2017, when she got tangled in the straps of the swing. The swing wrapped around her neck, and she tragically died as a result of the accident.
It was a devastating loss for her parents, her family members and her classmates, as well as the entire community. It's these stories that take a parent's breath away, but it's important to recognize the risks of playing outside on playgrounds during the winter weather.
Common playground Injuries during winter
Scrapes and bruises -- Children are forever coming in from the playground needing bandages to cover up the scrapes and bruises that they earned while having fun. These minor injuries are often more common in the winter months, because of the increased risk of slipping and falling on snow and ice.
- Broken bones -- This is a more severe injury that often occurs on playground equipment during the winter months. The equipment can be covered in snow and ice, or it can simply be wet, making it more difficult for children to climb and play on. For the most part, a child who suffers from a broken bone will make a complete recovery, but this is still a significant injury that will need to be treated immediately.
- Head and neck injuries -- Head and neck injuries can range from minor to severe, and they are becoming increasingly common on playgrounds during the winter months. From neck strains to concussions, children are at risk for these injuries when engaging in any kind of play outside.
These injuries are common, but there are of course more severe injuries that do occur less frequently. Permanent disability can result from some playground accidents, and sadly, there also are fatalities on the playground during the winter season.
Winter playground safety tips
It is not feasible to keep children inside all winter long, where they will be at less risk of injury. In fact, it's not even healthy. Children should be encouraged to get outside and go play, no matter what season it is. Simple safety measures can help decrease the risk of injury on the playground, while still allowing children to get some much-needed exercise.
- Maintain playgrounds properly throughout the winter. When snow or ice collects on the equipment, an adult supervisor should clean it off as quickly as possible. This allows children to play safely on it without increasing the risk of slipping or falling from the equipment.
- Encourage children to wear proper winter gear while playing outside. Snow boots, hats, gloves, mittens, warm jackets and snow pants should be worn whenever playing outside in the cold weather months.
- Make sure that play grounds are being monitored whenever children are playing. Adults should be available to get a child proper care as quickly as possible in the event of an accident or injury.
What to do if your child is injured while playing on a school playground
If your child has suffered an injury while playing on a playground in the winter months, there may be legal recourse available to you. If you believe that the injury occurred as a result of neglect, it is important to contact a Colorado personal injury attorney so that you can receive the compensation that you both need and deserve during this difficult time.
There's nothing more important than the safety of children, especially when they are simply immersed in the joys of childhood. To find out more information about Colorado personal injury law and what you need to know about playground equipment, contact our law firm today to schedule a consultation appointment with an experienced attorney.
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