The Dangers of Using Baby Slides Improperly
Baby slides can be a fun way for young children to enjoy outdoor playtime, but they can also pose a variety of risks if used improperly. Every year, thousands of children are injured on playground equipment, including slides, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Here are some common injuries to be aware of when using a baby slide:
Friction Burns
One of the most common injuries resulting from improperly using a baby slide is friction burns. This can occur when a child goes down the slide in shorts or a skirt, which can expose their bare skin to the hot metal surface of the slide. Even on mild days, the metal can become heated in the sun and cause burn injuries.
Head Injuries
Another common injury from baby slides is head injuries, particularly if the child is not using the slide properly or is not being supervised. If a child goes down the slide headfirst or attempts to climb up the slide the wrong way, they can fall and hit their heads on the ground or on the slide itself.
Broken Bones
If a child falls off the slide from a height, they risk breaking bones. This can occur if the slide is too high off the ground or if the child loses their grip while climbing up or down the slide. Broken bones can range from minor hairline fractures to more serious compound fractures.
Cuts and Lacerations
If the surface of the baby slide is not smooth, a child can easily scrape their skin and cause cuts or lacerations. This can happen if the slide has chipped paint, rust, or other abrasive materials on its surface. Additionally, children may also cut their skin on exposed hardware or broken parts on the slide.
Strangulation
While less common, strangulation can occur when a child’s clothing or accessories become caught on the slide. This can happen if a child wears a scarf, necklace, or other loose items while sliding down. To prevent this, caregivers should ensure children dress appropriately before playing on the slide.
Overall, it is important to supervise children when using a baby slide and ensure they are using it properly. By doing so, caregivers can help prevent the common injuries associated with this type of play equipment.
