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Installing a backyard playground is a great idea that many parents utilize. It gives children a chance to play outside in the fresh air and release some energy in a safe environment. The number one concern of parents should be making sure it truly is a safe place to play. Many aspects go into determining whether a playground is safe. Obstacles should be removed, equipment should be age appropriate and properly installed and the right kind of surfacing material should be used. One thing that often gets forgotten is the fact that spending hours in the sun can result in harmful UV ray exposure and sunburn. By including the right shade structures with the playground equipment, these fears can be eliminated.

While it is important that children have some exposure to sun, overexposure is a real threat. The only time children and adults should be exposing themselves to the sun is during less intense times of the day. The sun's UV rays are not at their peak before 2 pm. After that, the harsh rays have more negative effects on a person than positive ones. The development of skin cancer starts young, so prevent your backyard from being a contributing cause by installing shade structures over your playground equipment.

Shade structures come in many forms, including canopies and steel roofs. Consider the natural resources in your backyard as well. Shade can be provided by elements other than actual shade structures. Trees make an excellent natural way to block the sun's harmful UV rays. If you live in a home with large, luscious trees, take advantage of them. What is most likely is that the trees may line the edge of the yard and provide adequate shade for on looking parents. Unless the trees are huge and the equipment comes up right under them, you may still need shade structures for the hottest times of the day.

If a shade structure is something you hesitate to purchase, consider the safety of your children's skin. Overexposure to sun begins at a young age and can develop into skin cancer after repeated exposure. Only allow your children to play outside in the direct sunlight before 2 pm and in the evenings when the sun is less harsh. To lessen your worries, take advantage of the shade structures available on the market today, designed to protect your children and make playing more safe and fun.