The Critical Rule: Put Safety First

A backyard play set, whether it’s home-built or store-bought, can provide kids with hours of fun. But it can be dangerous too.

Here are some safety tips:

* There’s no substitute for supervision. Watch your kids as they play. Don’t let them play with wires or ropes. Watch out for loose clothing such as hoods or scarves that can get caught in the equipment.

* Set rules for behavior. Make sure your children and their friends understand playground safety rules: No jumping from high points, no wrestling on monkey bars and no jumping off a moving swing.

* Injuries commonly occur when children play on equipment they are too young to handle. Buy or build a system that adapts as kids grow, with swings and play platforms that can be raised. More difficult equipment--monkey bars and rings--can be added later.

* Once the set is up, inspect it periodically. Look for loose or broken parts, splinters and any damage caused by use and weather.

* Don’t leave lawn underneath. When the grass wears off, the dirt will be as hard as concrete. Instead, place a 10-inch layer of cushioning material such as mulch, sand, pea