In recent weeks, Playworld Systems, Inc. has recalled 1,300 defective metal slides used in schools and public playgrounds. Two children have suffered amputations of fingers due to the defect. Reports state the Lightning Slides made of stainless steel were sold by various distributors between 2000 and 2016. The defect is from incompetent welds on the sides of the slides. If these welds fail, the child’s fingers can be caught in the gap and cause serious injury. The company admitted to 13 incidents of broken welds thus far.
Lightning Slide Injury Recall
Photo Courtesy of playworld.com
The company has advised the public to stop using the recalled slides immediately. There are no marks to identify the manufacturer, so it is advised to avoid any metal slides unless carefully inspected before use. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has identified them as single and double bedways with matching welds on either side attaching the slides to the sidewalls. You can review photos of the defective slides on the company’s website playworld.com.
Defective metal slides are not the only potential danger on the play ground. The CDC has reported 200,000 children aged 14 years and younger for injuries sustained on the playground. A large percentage of these injuries are in the form of amputations, internal injuries, fractures, dislocation, and concussions. Most of these injuries occur on a public-use playground, but can also occur at day cares and schools.
Avoiding Injury on the Playground
You can help your child stay injury-free by following a few small steps:
- Make sure to supervise children on playgrounds and check for any potential dangers before allowing your child to start play.
- Ensure the playground you choose is age-appropriate for your child. There are different styles of playgrounds for small children. They will typically have a padded surface under the equipment, such as rubber or astro turf. If the playground is overrun by several large children, it may be a good idea to find something a bit more toddler-friendly.
- Playgrounds that do not provide a padded surface and use materials such as asphalt, concrete, dirt, gravel or grass should be avoided. You should also not be afraid to check with the entity that controls the playground to see when the last time the equipment was inspected.
If your child has been injured while using a metal slide on a playground or you believe their injury could have been avoided, call our office today at 314-862-7222 for a free consultation. If you need help now, submit an online inquiry and one of our professionals will get in touch with you as soon as possible.
