g. AR 608-10 states the following requirements for outdoor features at CDS
facilities.
NOTE: Not required for hourly group care.
(1) At least 100 square feet of outdoor play area per child is
recommended. Play areas will be enclosed by fence of a type not easily climbed
(horizontal slat fence is prohibited). Segregation of children by age group is
encouraged. Effective supervision of all children at all times is required.
(2) Garbage and refuse containers will be tightly covered, vermin-proof
and located away from the outdoor play area so as to be inaccessible to children.
Culverts, drainage ditches, sewer accesses, and all similar hazards will be
inaccessible to children.
(3) Play area surfaces should be selected to provide as safe a play
space as possible. Desirable characteristics include the following: non-slippery
when dry or wet, well drained, and nonabrasive. The surface under swings and
climbing equipment requires special consideration to reduce injuries incident to falls.
(4) Play equipment must be selected with safety and sanitation
consideration in mind. Proper size in relation to available space should be
considered. When provided, swings will be of the rubber sling type or with light
wooden seats and without heavy metal chains. All "S-hook" type fasteners will be
tightly closed. There will be no openings on slides or other equipment capable of
accepting a child's finger.
(5)
Remember these important points.
(a) Each child should have at least 100 square feet of outdoor play
area.
(b) The play areas should be enclosed by a fence that is not easily
climbed.
(c)
Children in play areas must be supervised at all times.
(d) Refuse and garbage containers must be tightly covered and
vermin-proof.
(e) Refuse containers, sewers, drainage ditches, and similar
construction must be inaccessible to children.
(f)
Play area surfaces should be non-slippery, well drained, and
nonabrasive.
MD0166
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