You’ll need to look carefully at what equipment is within your price range but do not compromise safety for price. The best type of equipment is the type that can change and grow with your child. These would allow for the growing and chaining of your child and will keep you from replacing the entire set when they out-grow it. There are modular, wooden and steel-framed sets. It is not recommended to buy a used swing set as there may be damage/rust to the set that may not be visible.
When considering a steel-framed set it is advisable to anchor the legs in the ground. This will inhibit rocking of the set and possible damage to the framing from twisting or tilting of the bars. Although setting the legs into the ground may work you will want to consider the height of the set after setting. Lowering the over-all height of the set can compromise the safety of the accessories. Anchoring into the ground can be done by simply digging a hole and using concrete. Concrete mix is available at most hardware or home building stores.
No matter the type of set you choose for your child you will have to look at the types of fasteners and chains that are used for the building and accessories. Be sure that any screws are capped to avoid scrapes or cuts from protruding screw/bolt heads and shafts. Chains that are used should be rubber coated or enclosed in a silicone-like casing to avoid pinching and cutting of fingers and hands. Rough surfaces and/or edges should be covered or sanded down to keep from causing scrapes, cuts or damage to clothing.
All accessories of your new playset should also be checked for safety. Slides that are metal should not be placed in an area where full sun can heat it up as this can cause painful burns to exposed legs and arms. The slide should have sides of 2 to 2 1/2 inches and be at no more than a 30 degree angle. Slides should also be no higher than 8 feet. Swings should be checked for cracks and/or breaks regularly. Cracked swings can break without warning and seriously injure a child.
Swing sets should be inspected at least once, if not twice, every season. Check all fasteners, screws and bolts to be sure none have loosened over time and use. Look for bolts and/or screws missing their protective caps. Chains and chain coverings should be checked for rust and cracked covering. Check anchoring of set for stability and all anchoring devices for safety and tripping hazards.
The most important part of swing set safety is to teach your child how to act and play on their set. No amount of precautions will keep your child(ren) from injury if their play is unsafe and, at young ages, unsupervised. Instill safe playing in your children and you will have little to worry about whether they are playing at home, at school or a friend’s house.
