Swing sets offer endless fun, but they also come with serious risks—especially in the “use zone,” where children move, jump or fall during play. Falls, collisions, tripping hazards and entanglement are common causes of injury. Understanding these risks and taking simple, proactive steps can help ensure play remains safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Key risks in the swing set use zone

The area required around a swing set—known as the use zone—is where most injuries occur. Understanding the most common hazards can help prevent accidents before they happen. Here are four key risks to watch for:‍

• ‍Falls from height: Children often fall while swinging—or jumping off mid-swing for fun. That’s why it’s critical to have impact-absorbing surfaces not just under the swings, but throughout the entire use zone. Approved materials include poured-in-place rubber, engineered wood fiber, rubber mulch, pea gravel and sand. These surfaces help cushion falls and reduce the risk of severe injuries.‍
• Collisions with people and objects: The swing zone should be a no-walk, no-play area for anyone not using the swings. Children swinging at high speeds can easily collide with others passing through. Nearby trees, fences or playground structures can also pose serious risks if they’re within the required use zone.‍
• Tripping hazards: A use zone should be free of anything that could cause a child to trip and fall. Common culprits include exposed concrete footers, tree roots, French drains, edging barriers and even landscape fabric. Regular inspections can help keep the area clear and safe.‍
• Entanglement dangers: Loose clothing or accessories can get caught on swing hardware, leading to serious injuries like strangulation. Look for open S-hooks, improperly installed bolts or any hardware that sticks out or faces upward. Swing parts will need to be moved to see the wear of connections, this would include using a ladder to visually inspect the connections at the top of the swing structure. These should be corrected immediately to eliminate all possible entanglement risks.

How to reduce risk around swing sets

Preventing injuries around swing sets starts with proactive planning and everyday vigilance. Here are six key ways to reduce serious injuries in a play environment:

1. Teach safe swing habits

‍Children should be taught how to use swings properly. Key rules include:

• Always sit—never stand—while swinging.
• Never jump off a moving swing.
• Don’t play games like tag, football or gaga ball in the swing zone. This area should be reserved for swinging only.

2. Supervise at all times

‍Even the most well-meaning kids can make risky choices in the heat of play. Active adult supervision ensures rules are followed and unsafe behavior is corrected quickly. Stickers should be located on the equipment or a sign at the entrance stating that supervision is required.

3. Maintain proper use zones

‍The swing set use zone should extend at least twice the height of the top bar in both the front and back, and at least 6 feet on each side. This buffer helps prevent collisions and gives children room to swing safely.

4. Use impact-absorbing surfaces

‍Falls happen—but the right surface can make all the difference. Approved materials like poured-in-place rubber, engineered wood fiber, rubber mulch, sand or pea gravel should be installed at a depth of 6–12 inches, depending on the material.

5. Inspect and replenish surfacing regularly

‍Over time, surface materials can shift, compact or wear away—especially in high-traffic areas. Regular checks and occasional replenishment are essential to maintain proper protection. Without borders, grass and soil may also creep in and reduce the effectiveness of the use zone.

6. Keep the use zone clear of hazards

‍The use zone should be free of anything that doesn’t belong—bikes, toys, benches, tree roots or even temporary items. A quick scan before play can prevent serious accidents.

Reducing injury potential starts with awareness and consistency. By teaching proper swing use, supervising play, maintaining clear use zones and regularly checking surface materials, you can greatly reduce the risk of injury. A well-maintained swing area not only protects children—it fosters a space where they can play with confidence and care.

Looking for more information and tools to help your organization prioritize playground safety? Check out the following resources!

• 10 Essentials of Playground Safety.
• Playground Safety Assessment.
• Keep Your Playground S.A.F.E.
• Planning Your Playground: Safety Recommendations and Tips.
• Five ways your playground may not be safe.
• Public Playground Safety Handbook | U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
• ASTM F1487-21: Playground Equipment for Public Use Standard | American National Standards Institute (ANSI).