Heat-Safe Playground Design
Cooler Playgrounds.
Safer Play.
Reduce heat risks. Improve safety.
Create play spaces that welcome
children in every season.
Playgrounds should welcome children—not push them away.
This guide delivers 60 pages of expert strategies to help community members, child care and school managers, municipalities and parks, planners, designers, build play spaces for children that stay cool, safe, and ready for action.
Does Your Playground Make the Grade?
Don’t wait for an injury or complaint. Download the infographic and take action today.
Spot risks. Propose solutions.
- Surface temperatures, shade coverage, and visibility gaps
- Check site layout, equipment placement and supervision
blind spots
Design and retrofit for comfort and safety.
- Select materials that reduce heat and improve durability
- Optimize layout for airflow, access, and safe movement
Maintain your site. Promote year-round play.
- Track wear, shade loss, and surfacing breakdowns
- Identify small issues before they become big problems
These child-friendly tips make a big difference.
With the right habits, children can enjoy outdoor play while staying safe in the heat.
Pack water and drink it often
Wear sunscreen
Wear light clothing and shoes
Watch for red cheeks or tiredness
Rest in the shade
Cool kids are safe kids. Hydrate, rest, and play smart.
Prioritize safety and thermal comfort.
INFOGRAPHIC
Does Your Playground Make the Grade?
Evaluate your playground in minutes.
- Your roadmap to evaluate design, surfacing, and maintenance
- Use your score to guide next steps and share with stakeholders
INFOGRAPHIC
Stay Cool While Playing
Make heat safety part of the routine.
- Promote safe habits like checking equipment temperature
- Encourage hydration and shaded play
INFOGRAPHIC
Designing playspaces for every season
Spot thermal risks before they become problems.
- Position equipment and shade for optimal comfort
- Choose surfaces and features that stay cool and safe
Every safe, comfortable playground starts with a plan.
Get the guide and take the first step toward smarter design.
This guide contains original research and expert recommendations. Please cite appropriately and request permission for reuse.