As communities and local governments begin to ease restrictions and allow playgrounds to re-open in Florida, you may be asking yourself, How safe is it to play outside at public playgrounds? With so much contradictory and inconclusive information swirling around, it can be difficult to know what to believe.
What we do know for sure is that the COVID-19 virus hasn’t gone away. Still, there are some tried-and-true measures that can be taken to minimize exposure in a public environment such as a playground. Creative Recreation Products is committed to helping you navigate this transition smoothly. Ensuring the safety and enjoyment of children as they return to play is our top priority.
Below, we outline essential guidelines and best practices to help you prepare your playground for a successful re-opening.
Thorough Inspection and Maintenance
Before re-opening, conduct a comprehensive inspection of your playground equipment. Check for any signs of wear and tear, such as loose bolts, rusted parts, or damaged surfaces. Our team is available to assist with professional inspections and repairs to ensure that all equipment meets safety standards. Regular maintenance is crucial to preventing accidents and extending the lifespan of your playground assets.
Enhanced Cleaning Protocols
Implement enhanced cleaning and sanitization procedures. Regularly disinfect high-touch surfaces, such as handrails, swings, and slides, using approved cleaning agents. Consider installing hand sanitizing stations at key entry and exit points to encourage good hygiene practices among children and caregivers. Our durable and easy-to-clean materials make maintenance straightforward and effective.
Social Distancing and Capacity Management
While playgrounds are designed for social interaction, it’s important to manage capacity to support social distancing where possible. Mark designated areas for play and establish clear guidelines to help families maintain appropriate spacing. Use signage to communicate current rules and encourage responsible play behavior. Remember that an open-air environment is more likely to disperse and dilute airborne particles containing the virus more readily than an indoor environment.
Staff Training and Communication
Ensure that staff and supervisors are well-informed about new protocols and safety measures. Clear communication is key to a smooth re-opening. Consider providing training sessions or informational materials to help staff understand their roles in maintaining a safe environment.
Engage with the Community
Keep the community informed about your playground’s re-opening plans. Update your website and social media channels with relevant information, including any new rules or changes in operations. Engaging with the community fosters trust and ensures everyone is aware of the safety measures in place.
By following these guidelines and staying proactive, you can create a safe and welcoming environment for children and families as they return to enjoy your playground. At Creative Recreation Products, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Contact us for additional resources and expert advice on preparing your playground for a successful re-opening.
The following links provide additional useful information about playground re-opening:
As Playgrounds Start to Reopen, Here’s How to Keep Kids Safe, New York Times
As playgrounds ready to reopen CDC says COVID-19 not easily spread on surfaces, WINK News
Reopening Guidance for Cleaning and Disinfecting Public Spaces, Workplaces, Businesses, Schools, and Homes, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Attention property managers!
Creative Playthings is here to help. Please contact us about our services to help you safely re-open your playground, such as:
 Playground inspection | Playground Checkup – After months of disuse, it might be a good time to have us perform a quick maintenance inspection, evaluate groundcover, etc. to ensure your set is and its surroundings are up to recommended playground guidelines. Signage – Per CDC guidelines and NRPA recommendations, playgrounds should display signage encouraging social distancing, one of the most effective measures for preventing COVID-19 transmission. Signs can be mounted on an existing post or fence, or we can provide a mounting post. The method of installation will also make it easy to remove the sign once social distancing is no longer recommended. |  Signage |
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 Hand sanitizer station | Hand Sanitation Stations – Frequent cleaning or sanitation of hands helps prevent the spread of the virus. Not only will this be a welcome addition for parents who have forgotten to bring hand sanitizer with them, it makes for a good investment for the future seeing as how flu season comes around every year. Sanitizing the Equipment – Although sanitizing the equipment is a temporary measure, it starts you with a nice clean slate, and spot treatment with a solution of bleach and water can also be administered on a regular basis to minimize the presence of the virus. It also signals to your residents a commitment to their well-being and beautifies equipment covered in a layer of dirt and oftentimes patches of mold. |  Equipment sanitation |