Playparks across West Dunbartonshire have started to reopen.
The council began opening them on a phased basis yesterday (Monday) and is urging parents and carers to follow signage in place.
In a statement, the local authority said: “We expect this process to be completed and all of our 92 playparks opened by no later than Friday, July 10.
“We would urge all parents and carers to follow signage in place at parks and ensure their children adhere to physical distancing guidance when using the equipment.
“As is common practice with our playparks, they will be inspected on a regular basis and any required maintenance or cleaning will be undertaken.”
The Register of Play Inspectors International have released six points of guidance for families looking forward to getting back out and active in local parks to ensure that they don’t put themselves or others at risk.
Their advice says:
1. If the playground facility you visit has not yet officially been opened, please do not attempt to use, or access the equipment or area.
2. Do not remove any temporary barriers to the playground or plastic fencing or unravel any swing seats or cables that may have been secured to put them out of use – this must be done safely by the owner or operator of the facility.
3. Follow the current social distance guidelines when visiting and encourage your children to do the same.
4. If the playground is busy, consider coming back at a later time. Talk to your children about this possibility before visiting.
5. Wash your and your children’s hands before and after visiting. Take hand sanitiser with you and consider taking a bottle of water for if your children’s hands get covered in mud. Ensure your children are using hand sanitiser frequently.
6. Follow and adhere to all current government advice in addition to the above guidance.
