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​Playgrounds and play near roads

Not all playground equipment is regularly checked.

To make sure your child is safe:

  • supervise them at all times when they are playing
  • put them on items that are suitable for their age and size
  • look out for sharp edges or bits sticking out which could get caught up in clothing
  • check rails on climbing frames or steps up slides
  • check that roundabouts have lots of hand grips and room for children to comfortably enjoy the ride
  • check your child's clothing to make sure there are no ties or cords - these could get caught and cause strangulation or an accident

Playing near roads

Always stay with children on or near roads. Children under 12 should not cross the road alone. You need to teach children about road safety from an early age.

Walking and road safety for children

Getting children to school safely - rsa.ie

Cycling - reduce the risks

To reduce the risks to children when cycling:

Do

  • make sure your child wears a helmet that fits

  • get them to wear reflective or high-vis clothing

  • check the bicycle's brakes, lights, reflectors, tyres and bell are working

  • check the bicycle should is the right size for them

Children under 12 years should not cycle on their own in or near traffic.

If you plan to cycle on a public road with children, make sure that they have the necessary skills and confidence to be safe.

Cycling safety for children

Cyclist road safety - rsa.ie

Push scooter safety

To reduce the risks to your child when on a push scooter they should:

  • never use their scooter on the road
  • always wear reflective or high-vis clothing
  • always wear a helmet and protective equipment that fits, including knee, wrist, elbow pads
  • use a scooter that is suitable for their weight, age and height

Young children are most at risk of injuries using a push scooter. Always supervise them when they are playing.

Children's manual scooters

Page last reviewed: 27 March 2023
Next review due: 27 March 2026