As the weather begins to warm up, many of us our outside working on our lawn.  While lawns and gardens are great places for children to play and learn, they can also be filled with dangers, such as chemical fertilizers, pesticides, sharp tools and power equipment.

According to Dr. Lewis First, chief of pediatrics at Vermont Children's Hospital at Fletcher Allen Health Care, certain fertilizers can contain substances such as arsenic, lead, mercury, cadmium and other metals.  When kids spend time playing or rolling around on the lawn, they're are going to be exposed to these chemicals and that can cause a lot of problems.

If you do use chemical fertilizer, kids should stay off the lawn after a it has been applied until it's been exposed to at least a quarter inch of rain or a good watering. Then, wait at least 24 hours before you allow kids to play on the lawn.  An alternatives to chemical fertilizer is mainly organic fertilizer, which are essentially made from manure or compost.  

Also, make sure you keep your lawn clear of debris, garden tools and other equipment. In addition, clean up any standing water  which could attract mosquitoes and other insects.

 

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