Look for soft seats on swings and adequate spacing between swings. Check that slides are well-anchored and have firm handrails and steps. Ask if the school, child care center or parks department schedules a maintenance program and if you can see inspection reports. The Consumer Products Safety Commission has issued guidelines for the inspection and maintenance of playgrounds and their equipment. Also, the NPPS has pamphlets and an inspection guide.
Educational materials designed for use in schools are also available.
The AALR, which Thompson heads, serves as a national forum for recreation professionals and promotes meaningful leisure and recreation activities. AALR develops curricula to improve recreation programs and participates in accreditation of college-level programs in recreation, park resources and leisure services. The remaining states will be included in the overall study and will receive a report card by the year 2000. The individual state report cards will be available at that site beginning on National Playground Safety Day, Thursday, April 29. Beta Gamma Sigma national honor society is accredited by the American Assembly of Collegiate Schools of Business.