Monday, May 20, 2013

Building Safety Month: Backyard & Pool Safety

As the weather heats up, IDC-Oregon encourages you to stay safe in your backyard this summer.

Week 3: Backyard & Pool Safety
Every year, accidents take place in unsafe backyards, accounting for 350 children under five years old drowning in swimming pools, 800 reported injuries and more than 20 deaths resulting from deck collapses (according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission). While everyone needs to be aware of the potential dangers of barbeques and grills, lawn equipment and toys, homeowners can trust a qualified interior designer to design safe outdoor spaces for their enjoyment.

A qualified interior designer…
  • Evaluates the site and existing conditions to design a deck that maximizes views, minimizes negative environmental conditions, complements the architecture, and specifies slip-resistant, durable, weather-resistant, and sustainable materials.
  • Provides efficient and effective space planning to support the desired functions of the outdoor space while improving the connection between interior and exterior spaces.
  • Ensures that all users, including children and the elderly, can safely navigate the deck by integrating code requirements, designing railings that minimize falling and stairs with wide treads and comfortable risers, and specifying flooring surfaces that prevent tripping.
Photo credit: Lovinger Robertson Landscape Architects of Eugene, OR

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