Garden safety: The hidden risks for kids playing outdoors this summer
An expert shares practical tips to prevent slips, scrapes and mishaps in the garden.
With the gorgeous weather we’ve been having this summer, many parents are letting their kids run free in the back garden. Far from the preparation time and mess that some indoor activities like crafting necessitate, garden play is a great, low effort way to entertain the kids while giving them the health benefits of vitamin D, fresh air and exercise.
But gardens can be unexpectedly hazardous, especially for kids, who might not have the knowledge or instincts to avoid dangerous situations. Slippery patios, an unlocked shed, and ponds might not seem like obvious hazards until you have excitable, inquisitive kids around.
Alex Essex, managing director and patio expert at Patio Black Spot Removal, says: "With a little preparation and awareness, you can enjoy a beautiful and safe garden this summer, but many people underestimate just how physically demanding and potentially hazardous gardens can be.”
Alex shared some of the most common garden injuries and how to avoid them so you can keep kids safe and enjoy your garden without fretting this summer.
Slips and falls
Wet paving, sealers on surfaces, and the build-up of organic growth and algae in winter can all contribute to slipping in the garden — especially if you have little children running on them.
Prevention tips for slipping include:
- Clean patios regularly to remove moss, algae, and debris.
- If you’re re-doing the garden, choose slip-resistant paving and matte or low-sheen sealers on smooth surfaces.
- If you can’t replace slippy surfaces, use outdoor mats instead to provide some grip.
- Wear sturdy shoes with good grip.
Plant-related injuries
Whether it’s a thorn prick, nettle sting, or cut from a sharp holly leaf, plants can be a hazard in the garden, too. And black nightshade, which can be deadly if eaten, tends to thrive in hot weather.
Plus, did you know that plant sap can sometimes be dangerous?
“Some garden plants, like euphorbia, giant hogweed, and fig trees, release sap that can irritate skin or cause blistering, especially when exposed to sunlight,” Alex says.
Prevention tips include:
- Keep prickly plants trimmed and well-managed.
- Learn to recognise common hazardous plants and keep kids away from any in your garden.
- Wash any skin exposed to sap immediately with soap and water.
Power tools and machinery
“Lawnmowers, trimmers, and other electric or petrol-powered tools are essential for garden maintenance but can be extremely dangerous if misused,” Alex says. If children get their hands on garden equipment, fall on it, or run into the path of someone using a power tool, it can spell disaster.
Prevention tips include:
- Keep children at a safe distance when using power tools.
- Have children wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and footwear if there’s garden work going on.
- Lock sheds, garages, or wherever else you keep gardening equipment
What else should parents look out for?
Alex says that one often-overlooked danger is structural wear and tear in gardens.
For example, “uneven or sinking paving can shift underfoot and lead to sudden falls. Poor installation methods show overtime and can be made worse by aggressive pressure washing and freezing winters,” he says.
“Regular inspections (especially after extreme weather) and timely repairs are crucial for safety. Investing in well-laid, high-quality materials and the correct preventative maintenance not only reduces risk but also extends the life of your garden features, saving money and injury in the long run,” he says.
Gardens are brilliant places for kids to explore, play and get their daily dose of fresh air – but keeping them safe does take a little forward thinking. With just a few tweaks to your outdoor setup, you can enjoy a summer of fun and not have to worry about first aid.