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Playground Safety: Beyond the Stranger Danger Myth
The scariest threat on the playground isn’t always a stranger. It might be the equipment itself.
Spencer Coursen
September 22, 2025
Hot slides, broken swings, rough play, and the everyday risks parents often overlook
Why this matters
When most parents think about playground safety, their minds immediately go to the worst-case scenario: a child being abducted by a stranger. And while attempted abductions do still occur — as seen in recent incidents in Ohio and Massachusetts — the reality is that children face a wide range of risks at playgrounds that extend far beyond “stranger danger.” From faulty equipment and heat-scorched slides to inadequate supervision and unsafe play behaviors, the hazards are varied and, often, overlooked.
Recent Stories That Hit Home
Attempted Abductions:
In Medina, Ohio, a 10-year-old narrowly escaped an abduction attempt at a playground in a residential complex.
In Stoughton, Massachusetts, a mother reported someone tried to abduct her children while they played.
Equipment Hazards:
In Texas, a 10-year-old girl suffered second-degree burns after sliding down a metal playground slide that had overheated in the sun.
In Georgia, a 6-year-old boy suffered a life-altering injury during recess at his elementary school.
Misuse of Equipment:
In the UK, 12-year-old Logan Carter died tragically after falling from a roundabout that had been spun at high speed by an e-bike.
These stories remind us that danger isn’t always lurking in the shadows — sometimes it’s hiding in plain sight.
Five Protective Strategies You Can Employ Today:
1. Inspect Playground Equipment
Check for hot surfaces, sharp edges, and broken or rusted structures.
2. Choose Safe Locations
Look for well-designed playgrounds with open visibility and secure boundaries.
3. Establish Safety Rules
Teach children about safe zones, check-ins, and limits on how far they can wander.
4. Encourage Group Play
Playing with siblings or friends reduces risk and increases accountability.
5. Stay Alert and Trust Your Gut
If something doesn’t feel right — whether it’s the environment, equipment, or people nearby — intervene immediately.
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Live Smart. Stay Safe.
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