Now that our kids are headed back to the playgrounds we thought we'd give parents a run-down of what to look out for to make sure they're safe after a long winter!

Every year, more than 200,000 kids are treated in hospital ERs for playground-related injuries.
The easiest thing to do is make sure there's adult supervision... especially for the younger crowd.

First, check surfaces. This is the most important factor in preventing injuries. Concrete, asphalt and blacktop are a thing of the past. Don't let your kids play there, most have been changed over to things that cushion a fall much better.

Second, keep in mind that equipment at a playground should be designed by age and preferably separated. The three different groups are ... under two, two to five and then older.
You'll want to look for things like guard rails and barriers for elevated surfaces.

The third thing on the list is a specific, swings.
They are the most frequent source of childhood injuries so pay special attention there.
Don't let your kids ride with more than one child per swing and make sure they don't stand especially when they're little.