Toddler Swings

Fall is in full force, and winter is on its way. While you are no doubt busy closing shop at your local playgrounds and parks in preparation for winter, it may be a good time to start considering upgrades to your playground equipment for next year. One piece of equipment you might want to consider replacing is your bucket swing.

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By: Cody Tuttle