Quick News Facts
Backyard safety
- According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 350 children under five years of age drown each year in swimming pools.
- Another 2,600 children under the age of five are treated in hospital rooms annually following submersion incidents, with some resulting in permanent brain damage.
- Nationally, drowning is a leading cause of death to children under five.
- Deck collapse is one of the most serious threats faced in recreational safety with more than 800 reported injuries and 20 deaths as a result of death collapse during the past 10 years.
- Deck failure typically happens as a result of poor construction and poor maintenance.
- Barbeque grills and portable generators can be a significant source of danger as they produce deadly carbon monoxide.
Week Four – Backyard Safety
As summer approaches, homeowners need to take the time to check their outdoor areas for potential safety hazards. While most people know that pools are a safety hazard for kids, there are lot more things to watch out for in your back yard, like barbecues and grills, lawn equipment and toys. Here are some tips from the Propane Education & Research Council to help keep you backyard safe.
Spring Forward to Backyard Safety
Summertime Grilling – Keep it Safe
Here are some additional zero to low cost simple steps can help to keep your family and friends safe in the future.
- Practice constant, adult supervision around any body of water, including pools and spas.
- If you’re considering a swimming pool purchase, contact your local Building Department first to determine exactly what permits are needed and what requirements you must follow.
- In-ground and above-ground pools, including inflatable pools holding more than 24 inches of water, must be surrounded by a fence or other barrier at least four feet high. Any gates in the fence must be self-closing and self-latching.
- Designate the grilling area a "No Play Zone" and keep kids and pets well away until grill equipment is completely cool.
- Check propane cylinder hoses for leaks before use. (Source: USFA)
- Do not move hot grills.
- Never add charcoal starter fluid when coals or kindling have already been ignited, and never use any flammable or combustible liquid other than charcoal starter fluid to get the fire going. (Source: USFA)
- Don't leave toys, tools and equipment in the yard.
- Reserve a spot on a wall or fence near the pool for lifesaving devices.
- Keep steps, sidewalks and patios in good repair.
- A common safety hazard occurs when porches are nailed to buildings rather than being attached with the proper anchors or bolts. Nails are a poor method for attaching porches to buildings because they work their way loose over time.
- Check all swings, slides, playhouses and other structures for sharp objects, rusty metal pieces, breaks or weakened support pieces.
- Learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
Important Backyard Safety Links:
10 Important Tips for Backyard Safety
Prevent Accidents, Save Lives: Pool, Spa and Hot Tub Safety Brochure