How to choose a location for your playhouse

How to choose the right location for your playhouse/playset Safety should be the number one consideration when selecting the exact location for your playhouse or playset. A play area that is well designed and contains sufficient surrounding space will be safe as well as convenient. Safety begins with planning, so take the time to consider the following guidelines before you construct your child's play area.

Location tips

A good location for your playhouse or playset is going to feature several things:

• level ground
• proper drainage
• source of shade
• clear perimeter

There should be at least six feet of open space between your playhouse area and structures such as a fence, garage, house, trees, electrical wires, or any other potential hazards such as water or hard surfaces such as a concrete driveway. If your playset or play area features swinging equipment, the swings will require a clear perimeter of at least twice the height of the swing beam.

Size and surfacing

The simple rule to follow is that the taller the playhouse or playset equipment, the greater the chance of injury. Make sure that the playhouse or playset you purchase is sized appropriately for your child. If your child needs assistance to use a playhouse or playset, it's too large and is potentially unsafe.

The location you select for your playhouse or playset will also need to be surfaced. The reason: falls account for more than 70% of playground injuries. Loose-fill material should be used to prevent falling injuries. Appropriate materials include engineered wood fibers, wood chips, very fine pea gravel, sand, or ground rubber. The surfacing material you select should be filled 9 to 12 inches deep, and should cover an area extending 6 feet or more beyond all playhouse or playset equipment.

Remember that all of the above safety precautions are no guarantee against accidents. Only proper adult supervision can truly reduce the chances of playhouse or playset mishaps.