04/01/2026
Planning some fun at home this summer? Make sure your backyard is safe for all your favorite activities by using this summer safety checklist.
Pool safety
⁃ Never leave children unattended
⁃ Kids should never be alone in or near a pool (even if they know how to swim).
⁃ Teach children to swim
⁃ Sign your kids up for swimming lessons if you haven’t
⁃ Learn emergency skills
⁃ Young children should learn when to get help. Older children and adults should learn CPR and first aid.
⁃ Buy pool safety equipment
⁃ Keep a first-aid kit, ring buoys and reaching poles nearby. Easy access to these items could be lifesaving.
⁃ Install a safety fence
⁃ Make sure your pool safety fence covers all pool sides and has self-closing gates. Also, install locks and alarms on doors with pool access.
⁃ Keep everyone in the know. Create and post safety rules and enforce them.
Trampoline safety
⁃ Add safety features
⁃ Make sure your trampoline has padding and netting. An enclosed trampoline can help prevent falls.
⁃ Maintain your trampoline. Inspect your trampoline regularly for missing pads, tears, exposed springs and other issues that could cause injury.
⁃ Enforce safety rules. Only one jumper at a time to reduce risk of injury.
Playground safety
⁃ Inspect your playground equipment regularly
⁃ Look out for protruding bolts, open hooks, broken ropes or rusted chains that could cause injuries. Replace equipment as needed.
⁃ Create a safe landing
⁃ Invest in soft-landing material like rubber tire chips or mulch to reduce or prevent injuries.
⁃ Teach playground rules
Having kids follow simple rules can contribute to playground safety and help avoid injuries.
⁃ Supervise young children at play
⁃ Keep a close eye on kids to reduce injuries and ensure your backyard safety expectations.
Review your home liability insurance limits
Even if you follow all these tips, accidents happen. Keep your liability insurance coverage updated (and consider adding an umbrella liability policy). If you add a pool, trampoline or playground to your yard, meet with your insurance agent to see if you need to increase your home liability coverage. Stay safe and have fun this summer!
