Playgrounds can be exciting, fun places for children to build dexterity and make friends. The two major causes of playground injury are: the playground equipment, its condition, and upkeep, as well as children's behavior on the playground.

• Many children fall off playground equipment and land directly on the surface below.
• On slides or monkey bars, kids who fall may strike equipment (steps, poles, etc.) underneath.
• It only takes a second to collide with a moving swing, merry-go-round, or teeter-totter.
• Drawstrings from a hooded sweatshirt can catch on a piece of playground equipment and possibly strangle a child.
• The coils of a spring rocker can severely pinch a child's foot or hand.

Each year, doctors and hospitals treat more than 500,000 injuries related to playground equipment. Climbing equipment is responsible for most of these injuries. Swings, slides, and teeter-totters/seesaws are also responsible for many injuries.

In 2002, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons launched "Prevent Injuries America" to help people avoid playgrounds injuries.

• Avoid playgrounds that have concrete, asphalt, hard-packed soil, or grass. The surface should be made of wood chips, mulch, or shredded rubber for play equipment up to seven feet high.
• Steer children to age-appropriate playground equipment.
• Check to see that there is enough space for kids to easily get off the slide or merry-go-round. Don't let kids crowd around the exit areas.
• Try the handgrips to verify they are shaped and sized for easy grasp.
• Swing seats should be made of plastic or rubber. Avoid metal or wood.
• Avoid any equipment that has openings that could entrap a child's head.
• Be sure you can clearly see your children on the playground. The kids should have clear, unobstructed views from their height.
• Remove tripping hazards such as exposed concrete footings, tree stumps, or rocks.

Give your playground a "Playground Safety Checkup" to ensure it complies with "Prevent Injuries America!"