In the summer, for children playgrounds become a place full of joy, laughter, and play. Unfortunately, high temperatures, especially during heatwaves, can pose a significant danger to kids. Overheating, sunburns, or dehydration, are just a few possible results of play in the open sun.
So what can we do to prevent this?
Designing with the hottest months in mind
It is crucial to consider sun protection at the earliest stages of planning. Including sunshades, umbrellas, or gazebos should be a priority to ensure safety and user comfort during the hot months. Properly designed and placed elements providing shade, not only protect from the UV light but also increase the value of a playground - making it comfortable to use all year round. These investments are crucial for the health of the youngest and should be considered an integral part of modern recreational spaces.
Fully Embracing Natural Elements
While designing playgrounds, it is good to consider the natural features. Trees are natural umbrellas, that provide shade and cool down the area. Incorporating existing vegetation into the playground planning and planting new trees in strategic locations can significantly enhance user comfort. Sunshades are an excellent complement, providing shelter where trees cannot be planted or have not yet grown enough to fulfill their role. This way, we can create safe and friendly spaces for children, allowing them to enjoy outdoor play without the risk associated with excessive sun exposure.
Lars laj’s solutions
Here at Lars Laj, we are aware of the dangers associated with high temperatures, so we offer a range of solutions aimed at increasing the safety and comfort of children during play on playgrounds. Here are a few of them:
Sunshades provide shelter on the playgrounds, protecting children from direct sunlight. Play areas are safer and more comfortable even on the hottest days thanks to them. The geometric shapes of the covers are made from nylon, which, due to its dense weave, guarantees blocking sunlight and preventing UV rays from penetrating. The covers are suspended on poles made of wood or metal. A sunshade can cover a sandbox, bench, as well as play equipment. An additional advantage of the sunshade is its easy and quick installation. It is recommended to install it in open playgrounds where there are no trees to provide shelter, or over a sandbox where the youngest children, particularly at risk of sunburn, play. During the winter season, the cover can be dismantled and reinstalled when the heat returns.
Shelters are an excellent solution that protects from the sun and rain while also serving as functional shelters on playgrounds. They can be installed in various locations, creating rest areas for children and parents. Additionally, they make great spots for social gatherings. The structure of the shelters is made from durable materials such as acacia and larch. The wood is properly treated, ensuring that the shelters maintain their quality and aesthetic appearance for many years.
Additional playground equipment includes umbrellas made of weather-resistant steel. The sturdy pole and durable shading surface ensure long-term use.
For public playgrounds, it is better to install umbrellas and shelters because they are maintenance-free and do not require disassembly during the rainy season. On the other hand, for enclosed playgrounds, such as those in kindergartens or residential areas, shade covers are an excellent solution. Although they need to be removed during the rainy season, they provide great flexibility in space arrangement and effective sun protection during the summer.
In conclusion
All these solutions enhance comfort and safety while also contributing to the aesthetics of playgrounds. They make these spaces more welcoming for children and parents, encouraging longer and more frequent outdoor stays. Investing in elements such as sunshades, shelters, and umbrellas, reflects a concern for the health and well-being of the youngest, which will certainly be appreciated by the local community.