What You Must Know About Rubber Mats for Playgrounds
Most of the time playgrounds are fun places to be for children. But they can also be extremely dangerous, posing a high risk of injury. Injuries are usually caused by children falling onto a hard surface, such as concrete or asphalt. But such incidents and injuries can be avoided by covering playgrounds with rubber mats. Why are rubber mats essential to playground safety? Here are some of the major reasons.
- They are shock absorbent.
Kids of any age, especially boys, tend to play rough when they are with other children. They can also easily fall from play equipment. Because parents cannot keep their eyes on their kids every second, making the playground a safer place is necessary. Rubber mats have better shock absorbing properties than many surfaces that make them ideal for this application. They are not as hard as asphalt and have a natural buoyancy, providing a little extra cushioning in the event of an impact. Children might still fall, but a fall onto a rubber mat is less likely to end in serious injury. There are also rubber mats that provide softer surfaces designed for younger children.
- They can survive in outdoor conditions.
It is essential to note that not all types of rubber mats can offer the same qualities or durability. If you want to make sure that your rubber mats are tough enough to handle the elements, consider getting recycled rubber mats made of old tires that are designed to withstand the outdoor conditions. The durability and longevity of the tires are passed along to the rubber mats. They can deliver reliable performance whether it rains, snows, or shines.
- They are comfortable.
It’s so much more comfortable to run barefoot on rubber mats than on concrete asphalt. Children won’t hurt their feet or get wounded by sharp protrusions or small rocks. Moreover, rubber mats also have what is known as a ‘bounce effect’ to reduce the pressure that can cause blisters.
- They are economical and environmentally friendly.
Contrary to popular belief, the production of many rubber varieties is also eco-friendly. Most forms of rubber are either created through a natural liquid that comes from certain trees or plants, or created by recycling older rubbers. By buying rubber mats for playgrounds, you are supporting a sustainable and environmentally-friendly industry.
