Parks play a huge role in giving the public a sense of wellbeing and a higher standard of living. They provide people with enjoyable surroundings so they spend more time outside, offer a place to engage in physical and outdoor activities, and serve as a pleasant and fun venue for get-togethers with families and friends.
However, keeping people safe when in public parks can be quite a challenge. The good news? Most accidents are preventable and all it takes is the implementation of a few simple precautions. While the following tips won’t eradicate every possible mishap, they can greatly help to lower risks and minimise the occurrences.
Investing in Quality Equipment
When it comes to amenities and services that are made available to the public, it pays not to skimp on quality products. Products and equipment that are of poor quality not only degrade the overall experience, but they can also be downright dangerous. Barbecue equipment must have health and safety at the forefront of its design – something that is often missing from low-grade models.
Park benches and furniture should use robust materials that will stand the test of time as well as frequent use, and the design should incorporate the health and safety guidelines of your local authority.
Regular Inspections
Investing in the right equipment is only half the job. Remember, no matter how good the equipment is, it’s always liable to develop damages from wear and tear. Vandalism, weather, and frequent use can all combine to make furniture and playground equipment unsafe over time.
To prevent problems that might increase the risk of an accident, ensure your parks undergo regular quality inspection checks. Verify that each piece of furniture is still in good condition, that barbecue installations don’t pose a health risk, and that playground equipment remains safe for kids to use.
Inspections should occur at regular intervals as well as after big events such as outdoor festivals. Large crowds will invariably lead to some damage somewhere.
Give Plenty of Warnings
Do not think that logic is enough to prevent most accidents, it’s not. That’s why it’s highly advisable that you place guidelines and safety warnings throughout the park. For example, clearly list the dangers associated with using certain types of equipment, such as barbecue installations. Remind parents to watch their children closely, particularly if they’re young and prone to wandering off or using equipment they shouldn’t be touching.
In addition to creating these warning signs, check that they’re placed appropriately. Give the signs a prime spot in your public parks, also ensuring the writing is legible and the colours used noticeable. While big red letters don’t always look nice, it does make certain that the signs are noticed by most people.
Encourage Help from the Public
While the responsibility will ultimately lie with the local authorities, it’s not a bad thing to request the help of the public. For example, equipment could be vandalised the day after an inspection, meaning it will go unnoticed until the next time a representative visits the site. To prevent such instances, include a note that the public can get in touch should they see something that requires attention.
Staff Training
Finally, it’s critical that all staff members who deal with the park are given health and safety training that covers how to prevent common accidents. This will help employees catch potential hazards early, see the symptoms of degrading of furniture or playground equipment, as well as spot members of the public doing something that puts them at risk.
Unisite provides exceptionally stylish and functional outdoor furniture and facilities for clients throughout Australia.
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