Backyard Safety for Children
Your backyard can be a wonderful space for children to explore and play, but it also contains hidden hazards. From toxic plants to lawn equipment to pool dangers, backyards require the same attention to safety as any other environment where children spend time.
Fencing and Boundaries Safe Kids
Proper fencing keeps children safe from traffic and other hazards.
Backyard fencing basics:
- Fence entire yard if possible
- Gates should self-close and self-latch
- Latches out of children's reach
- Check for gaps children could squeeze through
- Inspect regularly for damage
Pool fencing (essential):
- Pool must be fenced on all four sides
- At least 4 feet high
- Self-closing, self-latching gate
- Separates pool from house AND yard
- See pool safety section for complete requirements
Lawn Equipment Hazards AAP
Lawn mowers and other equipment cause serious injuries.
Lawn mower safety:
- Children under 12 should never operate push mowers
- Children under 16 should never operate riding mowers
- Never allow children to ride as passengers
- Keep children inside while mowing
- Check yard for children before starting
Preventing lawn mower injuries:
- Walk the yard first to remove toys, sticks, rocks
- Projectiles from mowers cause eye and other injuries
- Never mow in reverse if children are anywhere nearby
- Turn off mower before unclogging or making repairs
Other equipment:
- Store lawn equipment in locked shed or garage
- Remove keys from riding mowers
- Keep fuel and chemicals locked away
- Store sharp tools out of reach
Plants and Gardening Safety Poison Control
Many common plants are poisonous if eaten.
Toxic plants to watch for:
- Oleander
- Foxglove
- Rhododendron/Azalea
- Lily of the valley
- Daffodil bulbs
- Wisteria seeds
- Castor bean
- Many more
Garden safety:
- Know what plants are in your yard
- Remove highly toxic plants if children are young
- Teach children not to eat plants, berries, or mushrooms
- Keep Poison Control number handy: 1-800-222-1222
Gardening with children:
- Supervise when in garden
- Teach what's safe to touch
- Wash hands after gardening
- Store chemicals and tools safely
Play Equipment Safety CPSC
Home play equipment requires careful attention.
Swings and swing sets:
- Securely anchor to ground
- Proper surfacing underneath (rubber mulch, wood chips)
- Regular inspection for wear and damage
- Age-appropriate equipment only
- Supervise play
Trampolines (AAP advises against):
- If you choose to have one: enclosure net required
- One child at a time
- No flips or somersaults
- Adult supervision always
- Proper setup and maintenance
Play houses and climbing structures:
- Anchor securely
- Check for splinters, sharp edges
- Proper surfacing for fall zones
- Supervise young children
Water Hazards
Drowning can occur in surprisingly small amounts of water.
Backyard water dangers:
- Pools and hot tubs (require full barrier)
- Ponds and water features
- Buckets and containers
- Kiddie pools
- Pet water bowls
Water safety rules:
- Empty buckets and containers immediately
- Drain kiddie pools after each use
- Fence ponds and water features
- Lock pool when not in use
- Never leave children unsupervised near water
Animal and Pest Safety CDC
Backyards attract various creatures.
Insect safety:
- Check for bee and wasp nests
- Use insect repellent appropriately
- Teach children not to swat at bees
- Know if child has allergies
- Keep yard maintained to reduce mosquitoes
Animal encounters:
- Supervise pets and children together
- Teach respectful behavior around animals
- Wild animals: maintain distance, don't feed
- Check yard for animal droppings before play
- Watch for snakes in areas where they're common
Fire and Heat Safety
Fire pits and grills:
- Never leave unattended when children around
- Cool ashes can remain hot for hours
- Establish safe zones children can't enter
- Keep matches and lighters locked away
Hot surfaces:
- Metal playground equipment gets very hot
- Deck surfaces can burn bare feet
- Test surfaces before children play
Deck and Structure Safety
Deck safety:
- Railings at proper height and spacing
- No gaps children could fall through
- No loose boards or nails
- Sturdy and well-maintained
- Gates at top of deck stairs
Sheds and outbuildings:
- Keep locked
- Store chemicals and tools inside
- Never let children play in or around
Driveway Safety Safe Kids
Driveways are a significant danger zone.
Back-over prevention:
- Always walk around vehicle before backing up
- Know where children are before starting car
- Never leave children unattended in driveway
- Designate play areas away from driveway
Driveway rules:
- Children don't play in driveway
- Adults know where children are before driving
- Install sensors or cameras if helpful
- Teach children that parking areas are not play areas
Sun and Shade
Providing shade:
- Shade structures or umbrellas for play areas
- Plant trees for natural shade
- Canopies over sandbox or play equipment
- Schedule outdoor play for cooler parts of day
Sun protection:
- Sunscreen for outdoor play
- Hats and sunglasses
- Rash guards for water play
- Take breaks from sun
Creating Safe Play Spaces
Designating safe areas:
- Clear zone away from driveways and streets
- Visible from house
- Appropriate surfacing
- Free from hazards
Maintaining the yard:
- Regular inspections for hazards
- Remove toxic plants
- Fill holes and level surfaces
- Keep grass trimmed (reduces ticks and hiding spots)
Teaching Backyard Safety
Rules for children:
- Stay in the yard (define boundaries)
- Ask before going to neighbor's yard
- Don't eat plants, berries, mushrooms
- Tell adult about any animals or insects
- Play in designated areas
- Follow equipment rules
The Bottom Line
A safe backyard requires proper fencing, secure storage of equipment and chemicals, attention to water hazards and toxic plants, and active supervision. Walk your yard regularly to identify and address hazards. With proper safety measures, your backyard can be a wonderful place for children to play and explore.
Clara is here to help you create a safe backyard for your family!