The Problem
Bucket swings themselves are a nice safe alternative swing
for toddlers who yet lack the muscle stability to use a regular swing without
serious risk of falling while being pushed. The problem arises, however, when
older children (and occasionally teens) who are too big for it attempt to get
into the swing which, by design, requires assistance getting in and out of. The
older child then finds their legs stuck in the swing’s tiny leg openings which
were meant to prevent toddlers from falling.
While this may sound like some outlier problem, several fire
departments in cities and towns across the state found themselves cutting
children out of these toddler swings this past year.
The Solution
When looking for an alternative to your bucket swing, it is
important to keep in mind how important it is to still have the support and
safety that one provides, just without the ability to confine and trap the
legs. One alternative to consider is a swing with a removable guard, so that
even if a child finds themselves stuck, freeing them is as simple as undoing
the child proof latch. Another option (pictured below) is a form of bucket swing that is still
guarded around all sides, yet less constricting around the legs with a single
bar separating the legs to prevent a younger child from slipping through. As
always, be sure to consult the Consumer Product Safety Commission guidelines
for playground safety, or contact you LMCIT loss control consultant, before
purchasing any new playground equipment.
