What was recalled
In May 2018, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant recall involving specific playground equipment manufactured by Play and Park Structures. This action was taken to address safety concerns regarding their SuperMax triple slide line. The recall specifically targets three distinct models of these playground slides: model number 71717, which features a spiral design; model number 71718, known as the triple slide hood cascade; and model number 71732, which is the triple entrance cascade with a square deck. These are not generic items but specific configurations of the SuperMax product line, designed to offer multiple sliding experiences from a single elevated platform.
The recalled units are molded plastic playground slides that were sold in a variety of colors to suit different aesthetic preferences for home backyards or community parks. Each unit is constructed with three single bedways and an eight-foot deck, providing a substantial play area for children. The products are age-rated for children between the ages of 5 and 12 years old. This rating is clearly indicated on a label located on the upper part of the outside perimeter of the playground structure, alongside the Play and Park Structures logo. Consumers can verify their specific unit by checking this label and cross-referencing it with the model numbers listed in the recall notice.
While the provided official record does not specify the exact number of units sold or the precise geographic locations where they were distributed, it is important to note that Play and Park Structures has been actively contacting all known purchasers directly regarding this issue. The company initiated this outreach to ensure that owners are aware of the potential safety defect. If you purchased one of these slides, your sales invoice should contain the specific model number, which serves as the primary identifier for determining whether your product is part of this recall. It is advisable to locate your original sales documentation to confirm the model number quickly.
The decision to issue this recall stems from a identified safety defect in the design of the slide entrance. Although the slides are marketed towards school-aged children, the structural gap near the entrance way poses a serious entrapment hazard for younger children who may attempt to use the equipment. The CPSC and Play and Park Structures have determined that immediate action is necessary to prevent potential injury. If you own one of the identified models—71717, 71718, or 71732—you should treat this recall seriously and stop using the product until it has been inspected and repaired by the manufacturer.
The hazard, explained
When we talk about entrapment hazards in playground equipment, we are discussing a specific and often misunderstood danger that goes far beyond simple tripping or falling. In the case of the Play and Park Structures SuperMax triple slides, the issue lies in a precise geometric mismatch: a gap between the rails near the entrance way to the slide. While this space might appear wide enough for a child’s body to pass through comfortably, it is dangerously deceptive. The physical mechanism at play here involves the difference between the flexibility of soft tissue and the rigidity of bone.
Young children have heads that are proportionally large compared to their bodies. If a child attempts to crawl through or climb over these rails, their head may slip easily into the gap because it is smaller than the opening. However, once the head is through, the shoulders and torso—which are broader—can become wedged tightly against the rigid metal or plastic rails. Because children’s bones are still developing and more pliable than adult bones, they cannot simply twist or pull themselves free with brute strength. Instead, they can become locked in place by their own weight pressing them deeper into the constriction.
This entrapment creates a cascade of risks that are far more serious than a minor scrape. The primary immediate danger is asphyxiation. If a child is wedged horizontally or at an angle that restricts chest expansion, they may struggle to breathe properly. Even if breathing is not immediately blocked, the panic and exertion required to try to free themselves can lead to rapid oxygen depletion. Furthermore, the pressure on the neck or torso can impede blood flow, leading to fainting or more severe physiological stress.
Beyond the immediate risk of suffocation, there is the danger of being stuck for an extended period. If a child cannot be freed quickly by bystanders, emergency services may need to cut through the structure to extract them. During this extraction process, or while waiting for help, the child is at risk of hypothermia if outdoors in cold weather, heat exhaustion in hot sun, or dehydration. There is also the psychological trauma of being trapped, which can be deeply distressing for a young child who feels helpless and isolated.
It is important to note that this hazard is not always obvious to the naked eye. A gap might look safe when viewed from above or when empty, but it becomes dangerous under the dynamic load of a moving child. The CPSC identifies these types of gaps as critical because they exploit the natural curiosity and climbing instincts of children aged 5 to 12. Even though the structure is rated for this age group, the design flaw in the rail spacing creates a trap that defies the typical clearance standards intended to keep children safe. This is why immediate cessation of use is the only responsible course of action until a professional inspection and repair can be performed.
Who is most at risk
When we talk about playground safety, the focus naturally falls on the children who are the primary users of the equipment, but the specific nature of this entrapment hazard creates a nuanced profile of vulnerability. The recalled Play and Park Structures SuperMax triple slides were explicitly age-rated for children between 5 and 12 years old. This demographic is at the center of the risk because they possess the physical size and developmental curiosity that aligns perfectly with the defect. Children in this age range are often tall enough to climb into the slide’s entrance but not yet fully developed physically or cognitively to navigate tight spaces safely. Their bodies are compact, yet their limbs are long relative to their torso, making them particularly susceptible to getting stuck in gaps that might be harmless to a toddler or too small for an older teenager.
The specific hazard—a gap between the rails near the entrance way—targets a very particular type of interaction. Young children are naturally drawn to the structure as a whole and may attempt to crawl through, under, or around various parts of it without fully understanding the structural limitations. The entrapment risk is not just about being stuck; it is about the potential for serious injury if a child’s head, neck, or torso becomes lodged in the gap while their limbs continue to move or struggle. Because children at this age are still developing their spatial awareness and judgment, they may not realize they are in a dangerous position until it is too late to back out easily. This makes them significantly more vulnerable than older users who might have the size or cognitive ability to avoid such gaps entirely.
While the primary concern is for children aged 5 to 12, caregivers and parents also play a critical role in this risk equation. They are responsible for supervising the equipment and ensuring that it is used as intended. However, entrapment hazards can be subtle. A gap that appears minor from a distance or when viewed by an adult standing upright may look like a viable passage to a child looking up from below or approaching from a different angle. Furthermore, because the slides come in multiple colors and feature a molded plastic design, they are visually appealing and inviting, which can encourage repeated use and closer inspection by curious minds. This allure increases the likelihood of exposure to the hazard.
It is also important to note that while no injuries have been reported in the official recall data, the potential for harm remains real. Entrapment incidents can lead to panic, physical injury from struggling, or even more severe complications if a child’s airway is compromised. Therefore, the risk is not just theoretical; it is a tangible threat to any young child who might interact with this specific gap in the rail system. Parents and guardians should be especially vigilant if they have children within the 5-to-12 age range who are prone to climbing or exploring structures beyond their intended use. Even older siblings or friends visiting the home could be at risk if they fall into the same size category, regardless of their actual age. The key is that any child whose body dimensions might allow them to fit into the gap while having limbs that extend outward is potentially vulnerable.
In summary, the most at-risk individuals are young children within the 5-to-12 age range who are physically capable of entering the slide’s entrance area but lack the size to pass through safely or the maturity to recognize the danger. Caregivers must understand that the hazard is not limited to the act of sliding down; it exists in the very structure of the entrance itself, making any interaction with the rails potentially dangerous for this specific group.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you take any action or contact customer service, it is essential to confirm that your specific playground structure is part of this recall. Because Play and Park Structures manufactures various models, relying solely on the brand name or a general description like "triple slide" can lead to confusion. The CPSC has identified three specific model numbers for the SuperMax triple slides included in this alert: 71717, which features a spiral slide; 71718, known as the triple slide hood cascade; and 71732, a triple entrance cascade with a square deck. If your unit does not match one of these exact numbers, it is likely safe from this specific entrapment hazard, though you should always prioritize general safety checks for any outdoor equipment.
The most reliable way to identify your product is by locating the official label. This label is affixed to the upper part of the outside perimeter of the playground structure. On this label, you will find both the Play and Park Structures logo and the age rating, which is printed as 5-12 years old. This visual confirmation helps distinguish the recalled units from other models that may look similar but do not share the same defect. Additionally, the slides themselves are molded plastic and were sold in multiple colors, so color alone cannot be used to identify a recalled item. However, all recalled units share specific structural characteristics: they feature three single bedways and an eight-foot deck.
If you cannot find the label on the structure itself, your next best resource is your sales invoice or receipt. The model number for your unit should be clearly printed on this document. If you have misplaced your paperwork, you may need to cross-reference the physical features of your slide with the descriptions provided above. It is also worth noting that while the recall notice does not specify a single date range for when these were sold, it is important to check any records you have from around the time of the recall announcement in May 2018 or earlier. If you are unsure whether your item is included, do not guess. Contact Play and Park Structures directly with any photos or details you have, as they are actively reaching out to known purchasers to resolve this issue.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled Play and Park Structures SuperMax triple slides, your immediate priority is to ensure that no child can access the equipment until it has been professionally inspected and repaired. The remedy provided by the manufacturer is clear: you must immediately stop using the recalled playground slides. This is not a suggestion but a critical safety measure designed to prevent potential entrapment incidents. While the structure may appear sturdy and functional, the specific gap between the rails near the entrance way creates a risk that is not visible during normal play. By taking immediate control of the equipment, you remove the danger from your child’s environment while you arrange for the necessary fixes.
The next step involves reaching out to Play and Park Structures to schedule a free inspection and repair. The company has committed to contacting all known purchasers directly, but if you have not received communication from them yet, you should initiate contact yourself. You can reach their customer service team by calling 800-809-4181 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you may send an email to service@playandpark.com or visit their website at www.playandpark.com and click on “FAQ’s” for additional information. When you contact them, have your sales invoice ready, as the model number is printed there. This documentation will help them quickly identify your specific unit and confirm it is part of this recall.
Once you have established contact, follow the instructions provided by the representative to arrange for the repair service. The remedy includes a free inspection and subsequent repair to the playground slides, so do not hesitate to ask any questions about the process or timeline. It is important to keep the equipment off-limits to children until the repair is complete and you have received confirmation that it is safe. Do not attempt to fix the gap yourself, as improper repairs could compromise the structural integrity of the slide or create new hazards. By relying on the manufacturer’s professional service, you ensure that the entrapment hazard is addressed correctly and thoroughly.
Finally, stay in touch with Play and Park Structures until the repair is finalized and you have received written or verbal confirmation that the unit is safe for use again. Keep records of all communications, including dates, times, and the names of representatives you spoke with. This documentation can be helpful if any issues arise during the repair process. After the repair is complete, continue to supervise your children’s play to ensure they are using the slide as intended and that no new hazards have developed. Your proactive steps in following this procedure help protect not only your family but also the broader community by ensuring that recalled products are handled safely and responsibly.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you own one of the recalled Play and Park Structures SuperMax triple slides, your primary path to resolution is through a free inspection and repair service provided directly by the manufacturer. It is important to understand immediately that this recall does not involve a standard refund or a simple mail-in replacement kit. Instead, the remedy is designed to address the specific mechanical flaw—the gap between the rails near the entrance way—through professional assessment and modification. Play and Park Structures has committed to contacting all known purchasers directly to facilitate this process, which means you may already be receiving communication from them regarding your specific unit.
The core of the remedy is a free inspection followed by necessary repairs. The company recognizes that the entrapment hazard poses a serious risk to young children, and rather than asking you to attempt a fix yourself or sending generic parts that might not fit your specific model configuration, they are offering a tailored service. This approach ensures that the gap is identified and corrected according to their safety standards. If you have not yet been contacted by the company, you do not need to wait passively. You are encouraged to take the initiative to reach out to them to schedule your free inspection. This proactive step helps ensure that your playground structure is made safe as quickly as possible.
To access this remedy, you will need to contact Play and Park Structures through one of their designated customer service channels. You can call them at 800-809-4181. Their support team is available from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. This window allows you to speak with a representative during standard business hours to discuss your specific situation and arrange the next steps. Alternatively, if you prefer written communication or need to send documentation such as photos of the defect or your purchase receipt, you can email them at service@playandpark.com. For those who prefer navigating resources online, you can visit www.playandpark.com and click on “FAQ’s” for additional information that may help guide you through the repair scheduling process.
When you contact the company, have your model number ready, as this will help them verify your eligibility for the recall remedy. The recalled models include the 71717 (triple slide with spiral), the 71718 (triple slide hood cascade), and the 71732 (triple entrance cascade with square deck). Your model number is printed on the sales invoice you received at the time of purchase. By providing this information, you help the company streamline the inspection process. Remember, the goal here is safety through correction, not financial reimbursement. The repair service is provided at no cost to you, ensuring that your family can continue to use the playground structure without worry once the entrapment hazard has been professionally addressed.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is natural to feel hesitant about taking down a large playground structure, especially one that has been a staple of your backyard for some time. The effort involved in scheduling repairs or waiting for service can feel like an unnecessary inconvenience when the slide appears perfectly functional and sturdy. However, ignoring this recall is not merely a matter of delaying maintenance; it is a decision to leave a known safety defect active in an environment where children are playing freely. The core issue here is not structural failure or falling parts, but rather a specific geometric hazard: a gap between the rails near the entrance way to the slide. While this gap may seem insignificant to an adult eye, it presents a serious and immediate risk of entrapment for young children.
Entrapment hazards are particularly insidious because they often do not cause instant, catastrophic failure. Instead, they create a situation where a child’s head or body can become stuck in a position that is difficult to escape without external help. If a child slips while entering the slide or loses their balance, their head could pass through the gap while their shoulders remain caught by the rails. This can lead to strangulation, severe bruising, or panic-induced injuries as the child struggles to free themselves. Even if no injury has been reported in the specific incidents tracked by Play and Park Structures so far, the absence of a reported injury does not mean the risk is low; it simply means that, up until this point, the defect has not resulted in a documented case. Relying on luck is never a sound safety strategy when the consequences of failure are so severe.
Furthermore, continuing to use the slide without addressing the defect exposes your family to liability and emotional distress. If an incident were to occur, the fact that you were aware of the recall and chose not to act could complicate any future insurance or legal discussions regarding responsibility. More importantly, the peace of mind that comes from knowing your children are playing in a safe environment is worth far more than the temporary convenience of leaving the structure as-is. By ignoring the recall, you are essentially gambling with your child’s safety based on the hope that they will never slip at the exact wrong moment. That is a risk no parent should have to take.
The remedy for this issue is straightforward and provided at no cost to you: a free inspection and repair by Play and Park Structures. This repair is designed to eliminate the dangerous gap entirely, restoring the slide to its intended safety standards. Delaying this process only prolongs the period during which your family is exposed to potential harm. The company has set up dedicated channels to handle these repairs efficiently, including a toll-free number and online support. Taking action now ensures that the playground remains a source of joy and exercise for your children, rather than a place where preventable accidents could occur. Please do not wait for an incident to motivate you; act today to secure the safety of your home environment.
Staying safe: broader tips
While specific product recalls are essential for correcting manufacturing defects, true safety in your home and backyard relies on a proactive, layered approach to hazard prevention. Playground equipment, particularly large structures like the ones involved in this recall, presents unique challenges that extend beyond simple entrapment risks. One of the most critical, yet often overlooked, aspects of playground safety is proper installation and maintenance. Even if a structure passes inspection for gaps and rail spacing, it can become deadly if it shifts or topples during use. Ensuring that your playset is anchored securely to the ground according to the manufacturer’s specifications is non-negotiable. Wind loads, seismic activity, and the dynamic force of children swinging or climbing can compromise unsecured structures over time. Regularly check anchor points for rust, looseness, or wear, and re-tighten bolts as needed to maintain structural integrity.
Beyond the hardware itself, the environment surrounding the play area plays a huge role in injury prevention. The Consumer Product Safety Commission consistently emphasizes the importance of impact-absorbing surfaces beneath and around playground equipment. Hard surfaces like concrete, packed earth, or asphalt do not provide adequate cushioning for falls, which are common during play. Instead, opt for loose-fill materials such as wood mulch, sand, or engineered wood fiber, ensuring they are maintained at a sufficient depth—typically at least nine to twelve inches below the equipment. These surfaces must be kept clear of debris and raked regularly to maintain their shock-absorbing properties. This simple step can significantly reduce the severity of injuries from falls, which remain the leading cause of playground-related incidents.
It is also wise to establish routine safety habits that go beyond annual checks. Teach children about safe play practices, such as sliding feet-first and waiting for others to clear the slide before going down. Supervision is equally vital; young children often lack the judgment to recognize entrapment hazards or structural instability. Furthermore, stay informed about product safety by signing up for recall alerts from the CPSC and registering your products with manufacturers whenever possible. This ensures you receive direct notifications if a defect is discovered in equipment you own. Finally, consider the broader context of outdoor play by inspecting other backyard structures, such as swings, monkey bars, and climbing frames, for similar gaps, sharp edges, or pinch points. A comprehensive safety mindset transforms passive observation into active protection, ensuring that playtime remains joyful and secure for your family.
- Maintain Impact-Absorbing Surfaces: Regularly check depth and condition of mulch, sand, or rubber mats under equipment.
- Anchor Structures Securely: Inspect ground anchors and bolts seasonally to prevent tipping or shifting.
- Register Your Products: Use manufacturer registration cards or online portals to receive direct recall notifications.
- Supervise Active Play: Ensure children understand safe usage rules and that adults monitor for structural issues.