Your backyard is finally getting the love and attention it deserves, and it’s all thanks to the stay-at-home order that’s still enforced all over the world. With families craving some outdoor fun, people resort to their forgotten backyard space to enjoy al fresco meals, friendly sports, and other leisurely activities. While spending time under the sun comes with numerous benefits, they can be undermined by the lingering hazards in your backyard.
If you haven’t taken measures to ensure your family’s safety during your backyard outings, now’s the time to do so. Here are some of the most urgent actions you can take today.
Get Rid of Mosquitoes
As you already probably know, mosquitoes aren’t just inconvenient. On some occasions, they can be pretty deadly. The same applies to other pests that can be lingering in your backyard. If you haven’t treated it lately with eco-friendly pesticides or hired professional mosquito and tick control services, then don’t delay any longer. Getting rid of hidden nests and certain plants that encourage their resurgence is critical, as one bite can compromise your health and those of your pets in serious ways.
Research the best extermination services in your area and opt for one that uses environment-friendly solutions. Once you’ve gotten rid of the mosquitoes and ticks in your backyard, you can be more confident of staying there for hours on end.
Install the Perfect Fence
It’s not comfortable to spend so much time in your backyard when you’re wary of wildlife and trespassers all the time. This is a more serious matter if you have children, as they can cross the boundary of your property or be carried easily over your white picket fence. If you’re decided that spending time outdoors will be a part of your daily routine, you need a fence that offers a satisfactory degree of security and privacy.
The great thing about fences nowadays is that they come in a wide variety of materials and all sorts of designs. A multi-functional fence doesn’t have to look dull. When you choose the correct elements, you might find your outdoor quality time enhanced by them.
Secure Your Pool
Drowning accidents are common in residential properties, primarily because of a lack of security measures. Apart from installing a fence on your backyard’s perimeter, you can also install one around your fence to keep pets and children away. Ensure that there are additional locks and sensors to the entry points to your backyard, as your young ones can easily get from one place to another in the short time you look away.
Be Wary of Fire Hazards
Grilling is the ideal backyard activity. Nothing beats the smell of grilled food while you’re floating in the swimming pool or playing with giant chess pieces. That said, not every homeowner takes the appropriate precaution against grill accidents. One wrong move can start a fire or result in a severe burn injury.
This is why the placement of your grill is so essential. Ensure that it’s nowhere near flammable items and that you have fire extinguishers nearby if a small fire starts. If you have children or pets around, establish a perimeter to keep them away. Finally, lock up items like matches and lighter fluid as soon as you’re done using them. You can never be too careful when you are dealing with possible fire hazards.
Check Outdoor Structures
Do you have a treehouse that your children haven’t used in a long time? Perhaps you installed outdoor furniture and amenities like fire pits a year ago but have rarely used them. Before getting carried away with your entertainment plans, it’s best to check if any of these structures are still in good condition.
Any crack or breakage can lead to serious injuries after one or two uses. Fire pits, grills, pizza ovens, and hammocks, among others, can wear and tear over time. If you feel a little hesitant to use them, then trust your gut. It’s better to purchase new items than risk a visit to the emergency room due to careless mistakes. Who knows? This might even give you the perfect excuse to give your backyard a total makeover.
It’s All About Paying Attention
Not all backyards are created equal with the same security elements. Yours may pose unique challenges that can either be quite obvious or painfully inconspicuous. The key is to pay attention to your surroundings and do your research. Once you’ve covered the basics, the rest will be easier to deal with.
