We are naturally attracted to the great outdoors. However, with the recent pandemic doing its rounds across the world, we are now cooped up at home. Time outdoors is now limited, even restricted for some. Thus, people are turning to their backyards and gardens to get their hit of fresh air, greenery, and fun.
With that being said, you must now put a little more time and effort into keeping these areas of your home safe, especially for your babies and fur babies. It is not as easy as it sounds, but it is key to keeping your home and life in tip-top shape. These measures aren’t just for safety but for style too. You may have a little fun as you find and follow the best ways to protect your kids and pets in your backyard.
Install a fence.
This is one of the most commonly known safety must-haves. Fences are a sure-fire way to keep you and your home safe.
The backyard is one of the biggest open spaces in a typical home. It is also a place often frequented by household members, most especially energetic pets and children. Installing a fence does not just keep away thieves and rabid animals but also keeps your kids and pets from running off during outdoor playtime. Prices range from $1,000 to $2,000, depending on the size of your home. This might seem a bit pricey at first, but you end up saving you thousands of dollars on possible damages, losses, and injuries that could happen if you ever choose not to install a fence.
You can also install self-closing and self-latching hinges to your fence gates. With these latches and hinges only costing between $30 to $60, they are a cost-effective add-on that reduces the risk of break-ins and saves you time from checking if the gates are truly closed.
Aside from the benefits of security and safety, fences can also add a little pizzazz to your property. There are dozens upon dozens of designs, materials, and colors you can consider.
Improve pool security.
Now, not to scare you off or anything, but did you know that drowning is the most common reason for child deaths? Sadly, most of these drownings happen in residential pools because there are no lifeguards or staff there to keep watch and rescue anyone who could need help.
Do not fear, as there are several things you can do to prevent pool-related accidents. You can start by installing portable black metal fencing. Yes, more fencing; it’s just that reliable, you see! Going as cheap as $25 and even as expensive as $1,500, installing these fences around your pool ensures that your children and pets cannot access it without adult supervision.
To remedy the pool’s slippery edge, you can add texture to the pool deck. You may do it yourself by just scuffing it up a little or hire someone to add a layer of concrete into which they will carve your preferred designs. This service may cost $12 to $20 per square foot, including labor. It ensures safety while also giving your pool a bit of a dramatic flair.
Some gadgets can help ensure safety in the pool. One good example is the pool alarm. These alarms cost only $183 on average, and they have sensors that warn you when somebody is near the pool. This is very helpful if you happen to be in another part of your home, and your beloved pet or child happens to stumble into the pool. You can rush right into action once you hear the sound. There are many types of pool alarms you can choose from, from floating motion sensors, underwater motions sensors to wall/fence mounted pool alarms.
Regularly check the playsets for any damage.
It would help if you made it a habit to check outdoor playsets for damage before and after playing and after any bad weather incidents. Always identify unsafe items as early as possible and have them fixed before allowing your child and pet to use the playset. A rusty nail or loose floorboard may mean tetanus and a nasty fall, respectively. Other things you need to check are rotting wood, protruding bolts, damaged floorboards, loose railings, and broken steps. These can pose a threat to your children and pets’ overall well-being.
To note, whenever you are buying a playset or play place, you must first make sure that it meets the American Society for Testing and Materials or ASTM standards. ASTM is a group that issues standards for residential playground equipment, ensuring they are of the best quality, especially when it comes to safety. You should never purchase a playset without the certification, even if it does save you a few dollars. Extra money is and never will be worth compromising your children and pets’ safety and life.
Prioritize safety
Finally, after covering all that, it is safe to say that safety is always the number one priority. The fact that you have read through all these shows that you are already on the right track. Have fun, and stay safe during outdoor play!
