As winter weather sets in, ensuring playground safety becomes even more critical for school administrators. Here are seven essential tips to keep your students safe during winter recess.
- Conduct Daily Surface Inspections Start each day by checking playground surfaces for ice patches, snow buildup, or frozen puddles. Pay special attention to areas under and around equipment where ice tends to form. Consider designating specific staff members for these morning inspections.
- Establish Temperature Guidelines Create clear policies about outdoor recess temperature thresholds. Factor in both actual temperature and wind chill when making decisions. Many schools use 20°F (-6°C) as a minimum threshold, but consider your local climate and student population when setting guidelines.
- Maintain Proper Drainage Ensure playground areas have adequate drainage to prevent water accumulation that could freeze. Regular maintenance of drainage systems helps prevent dangerous ice formation and prolongs the life of playground surfaces.
- Implement Equipment Restrictions Some playground equipment becomes particularly hazardous in winter conditions. Consider restricting access to metal slides, climbing structures, or equipment with platforms elevated more than 4 feet during icy conditions. Clear signage should indicate which equipment is off-limits.
- Require Appropriate Winter Gear Enforce strict clothing requirements for winter recess. Students should wear warm coats, gloves, hats, and appropriate footwear with good traction. Keep extra sets of winter gear on hand for students who might need them.
- Train Playground Supervisors Provide specific winter safety training for staff who supervise recess. Include guidance on identifying dangerous conditions, enforcing safety rules, and responding to cold-weather emergencies. Supervisors should also know signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
- Create Snow Removal Protocols Develop clear procedures for snow removal, including which areas need to be cleared first and what de-icing products are safe to use around children and playground equipment. Ensure paths to and from the playground are also maintained.
By implementing these guidelines, administrators can help ensure their playgrounds remain safe spaces for winter recreation while minimizing the risk of cold-weather injuries.