What are some common school yard injuries?

School yard injuries are common and children can get hurt.  However, there are times when the school may be responsible or partly responsible for the student's injuries.  Here are some common school yard injuries and how schools can keep their students safe.

1. Playground Falls:
   • Injuries from falls off playground equipment.
   • Examples include broken bones, sprains, and concussions.
2. Sports Injuries:
   • Injuries sustained during physical education classes or organized sports activities.
   • Common injuries include sprains, strains, fractures, and contusions.
3. Trips and Falls:
   • Accidents caused by uneven surfaces, cluttered walkways, or inappropriate footwear.
   • Resulting injuries may range from minor cuts and bruises to more severe fractures.
4. Collisions:
   • Accidents that occur when students collide with each other during play or sports.
   • Injuries may include bruises, cuts, or more serious injuries if the collision is forceful.
5. Lacerations and Abrasions:
   • Cuts and scrapes from various activities.
   • Playground equipment, sharp objects, or even other students' belongings can cause these injuries.
6. Sprains and Strains:
   • Overexertion or improper technique during physical activities can lead to sprains and strains.
7. Concussions:
   • Head injuries resulting from falls, collisions, or other accidents.
   • Concussions require careful monitoring and appropriate medical attention.

Responsibilities of Schools to Keep Students Safe:

1. Supervision:
   • Schools must provide adequate supervision during all school-related activities, including recess, physical education classes, and sports events.
2. Safe Infrastructure:
   • Ensuring that playgrounds, classrooms, hallways, and other facilities are designed and maintained with safety in mind.
   • Regular inspections and repairs of equipment and facilities.
3. Safety Policies:
   • Implementing and enforcing safety policies and rules to guide student behavior.
   • Educating students about safety measures and practices.
4. Emergency Preparedness:
   • Having proper emergency plans in place, including response protocols for injuries.
   • Training staff in first aid and emergency response.
5. Risk Assessments:
   • Conducting regular risk assessments to identify and address potential hazards on school premises.
6. Communication with Parents:
   • Keeping parents informed about safety measures and providing information about injuries that occur on school grounds.
7. Physical Education Guidelines:
   • Ensuring that physical education classes follow appropriate guidelines and that instructors are trained in injury prevention.
8. Anti-Bullying Programs:
   • Implementing anti-bullying programs to prevent injuries resulting from physical altercations among students.
9. Health and Safety Education:
   • Integrating health and safety education into the curriculum to empower students with knowledge on injury prevention.
10. Collaboration with Health Professionals:
    • Working with healthcare professionals to address specific health needs of students and provide necessary accommodations.

It's important to note that the specific responsibilities can vary based on local regulations and school policies. In many cases, a combination of preventive measures, supervision, and timely response to incidents contributes to creating a safe school environment.