The new camping season is just around the corner! To ensure a smooth start of a new season it is key to carry out a complete technical check of everything on your grounds. Wickey PRO is happy to help you prepare for a successful start. Below, you’ll find the key points to keep in mind.
1. Check the safety standards
Did you know that playground equipment in public areas must comply with European safety standards (EN1176)? This also applies to your campsite. It’s not uncommon for smaller campsites to install playground equipment intended for private use; however, this isn’t permitted in public areas in order to protect children’s safety. Make sure your equipment is certified according to EN1176, if you don’t know how don’t hesitate to ask us – Wickey PRO can help.
2. Inspect your playground equipment
Before the start of the season, carefully inspect all playground equipment for possible damage, loose screws, cracks, rust, or splinters. Give extra attention to equipment that has been used intensively – such as swings, slides, and climbing frames (don’t forget the top rungs!). Tip – keep the manufacturer’s maintenance checklists at hand.
3. Maintaining the Ground Surface
Make sure the impact-absorbing surface around the playground equipment is still in good condition. Check for the following:
- A clear obstacle-free zone of at least 1.5 meters (2 meters for forced movements)
- Overgrown shrubs or emerging tree stumps that might reduce the obstacle-free zone
- Any rubber tiles or EPDM flooring that may be present. Check whether they’re still resilient enough and haven’t hardened due to weather conditions.
- Sand is often used as a fall surface, but it also makes great play material. Make sure it’s properly leveled in the play area.
- Lastly, always check that no sharp or dangerous objects have found their way into the playground during the winter months.
4. Cleaning the Equipment
Before your campsite opens, it’s a good idea to give all playground equipment a thorough cleaning. Remove any dirt, mold, leaves, and other contaminants. Using wooden playground equipment? Consider installing post caps and treating the wood with a suitable stain every few years. This helps prevent wood rot and extends the equipment’s lifespan.
5. Safety Signs and Instructions
In some countries, it’s mandatory to post clear safety instructions at public playgrounds. Think of guidelines on recommended ages, weight limits, and/or rules of conduct. Check whether this applies to you and be sure to order any required signs well in advance.
6. Keep Spare Parts in Stock
A small missing or broken part can render the entire playground equipment temporarily unusable. That’s why it’s important to always keep a small supply of common parts on hand. Wickey PRO usually delivers the most frequently needed replacement parts within 24 hours, but for older equipment from certain suppliers, it can sometimes take much longer. Avoid disappointment by having a basic stock of small materials that you can use right away.
7. Ready for a Successful Season!
With timely inspections, a focus on safety standards, and a supply of spare parts on hand, you are set up for playful success! It also gives both you and your youngest visitors the confidence that they can play safely.
Do you have questions about your maintenance plan or would you like to learn more about selecting new playground equipment? Feel free to contact Wickey PRO for expert advice. Here’s to a carefree and successful recreation season! Take advantage now of 10% discount on Wickey PRO products with the code PINCAMPSTART10.
