Child Safety and Your Deck
Decks are beautiful and they allow for a lovely space to spend time outdoors. Some decks are large and some are small but they all bring an extra outdoor space for families to relax and enjoy one another. The construction of some decks may cause safety issues as it relates to small children. Children should always be supervised when playing on or around your deck.
There are certain safety tips that are standard such as making sure the railings on your deck are secure and making sure the deck posts are no more than 4 inches apart to prevent children and pets from being harmed. Children are curious and they will put their heads between the post if able which could result in a serious life threatening situation.
Making sure your deck meets certain safety standards is crucial for safety matters. There are also some other safety issues that should be checked like ensuring the wood is treated to prevent splinters. This makes for a safe deck so that children can play without being worried of getting a wooden splinter. The railings should also be at a height that will ensure the safety of everyone. If you were not involved in the installation of your deck, maybe you moved into a home with an existing deck, you should check to ensure your deck meets safety regulations.
As a parent it is your duty to make sure that your children are safe at home this includes on your deck. There are many accidents that happen at home that are avoidable and you are better off being safe now than sorry later. Give your deck a thorough safety check to protect your children and others. Some things to check for safety are:
- Security of railings and banisters
- Height of railings
- Sturdiness of railings and banisters
- Width between posts
- Make sure the stairs are sturdy and secure
- Decaying wood
- Clean and free of leaves or other items which can cause a slip and fall
- Open areas under deck – secure to prevent children from going under
Many people like to sit outside on chilly evenings with a fire pit. If you have a fire pit be sure to understand the regulations as it relates to approved fire pits that can sit on your deck or fire pits that sit in your backyard to ensure proper location to prevent fires. In your attempt to enjoy your deck put child safety and your deck as the number one priority. Decks are an added bonus to your home, make sure it is safe and serves its purpose and not a burden due to a host of safety issues. Your children will enjoy playing on your deck and you will enjoy seeing them when you are sure that it is safe.
When used correctly decks can offer a place for great family time and enjoyment. Many people use decks to have outdoor parties and host events make sure that your deck is safe and enjoyable.
