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Families urged to check these hidden garden risks before sunny half term

Families urged to check these hidden garden risks before sunny half term

An expert shares practical tips to prevent slips, scrapes and mishaps in the garden.

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Ruairidh Pritchard

Published: May 22, 2026 at 9:59 AM

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The bank holiday and half term sunshine is here and gardens across the UK are filling up with paddling pools, ice lollies and the sound of little feet racing across the lawn.

For many families, that also means grandchildren spending the day at Grandma and Grandad’s house while parents squeeze in a shift or enjoy a rare break.

But during a heatwave, the garden can quickly become a hazard zone, especially in homes that are not usually set up for toddlers or young children.

From slippery patios to sun-sensitive plants, there are a few hidden risks worth checking before the next round of garden games begins.

Alex Essex, managing director and garden expert at Patio Black Spot Removal, says many families underestimate how quickly accidents can happen outdoors.

With a little preparation and awareness, you can enjoy a beautiful and safe garden this summer, but many people underestimate just how physically demanding and potentially hazardous gardens can be.

Alex Essex, patio expert

Here is what to look out for before the grandchildren arrive.

Slippery patios in the heat

It might seem odd to worry about slipping during a heatwave, but hot weather can make certain surfaces more dangerous. Splashing from paddling pools, water fights and melting ice can turn patios slick in seconds.

On top of that, many patios still have a build-up of moss or algae from winter, which becomes extremely slippery when wet.

Quick safety checks before playtime

Hose down and scrub patios to remove moss, algae and debris.
Place non-slip outdoor mats near paddling pools and water play areas.
Encourage children to wear grippy sandals or trainers rather than running barefoot on smooth paving.
If you are updating your garden, consider slip-resistant paving and matte sealers.

A quick sweep and rinse in the morning can prevent a nasty fall later in the day.

Plants that do not mix with sunshine and sensitive skin

Grandparents’ gardens often have well-established plants, some of which can cause unexpected reactions in hot weather.

Beyond the usual thorn scratches and nettle stings, some plants release sap that reacts with sunlight.

Alex says: “Some garden plants, like euphorbia, giant hogweed, and fig trees, release sap that can irritate skin or cause blistering, especially when exposed to sunlight.”

In a heatwave, when children are wearing shorts and vests, skin is more exposed and therefore more vulnerable.

Black nightshade, which can be toxic if eaten, also thrives in warm conditions, making it particularly important to keep an eye out for unfamiliar berries.

How to make plant areas safer

Trim back prickly or overgrown plants before children visit.
Remove or clearly block off any hazardous plants.
Remind children never to eat berries or leaves from the garden.
Wash skin immediately with soap and water if it comes into contact with plant sap.

If a child develops a rash or feels unwell after touching or tasting a plant, seek medical advice straight away.

How to spot heat exhaustion in children

Dr Philippa Kaye, GP and mum of three, says babies and toddlers are particularly at risk in hot weather, but older children can also develop heat exhaustion if they are very active in the heat.

Common signs of heat exhaustion

Heavy sweating
Tiredness or unusual sleepiness
Dizziness or headache
Feeling sick or tummy ache
Fast breathing or pulse
Temperature of 38°C or above
Dark urine or weeing less than usual

What to do quickly

Take them inside, out of the sun
Remove excess clothing
Cool them with a fan or a cool, damp cloth
Encourage them to drink plenty of fluids, little and often

Most children should start to feel better within 30 minutes. If they do not improve or seem more unwell, seek urgent medical advice.

Garden tools and unlocked sheds

Bank holiday weekends are prime time for mowing the lawn or trimming hedges, but power tools and children do not mix.

Alex warns: “Lawnmowers, trimmers, and other electric or petrol-powered tools are essential for garden maintenance but can be extremely dangerous if misused.”

Grandparents may not be used to having curious toddlers around, which makes double-checking storage even more important.

Simple steps to lower the risk

Lock sheds and garages where tools and chemicals are stored.
Keep children well away when using any power tools.
Store sharp tools out of reach, even during short breaks.
Create a clear boundary so children know where they can and cannot play.

Even watering cans and heavy plant pots can become trip hazards when little ones are weaving around the garden.

Watch for wear and tear

Older gardens, in particular, may have uneven paving, wobbly steps or loose decking boards that regular visitors instinctively step around, but children will not.

Alex explains that “uneven or sinking paving can shift underfoot and lead to sudden falls. Poor installation methods show over time and can be made worse by aggressive pressure washing and freezing winters.”

He adds: “Regular inspections and timely repairs are crucial for safety. Investing in well-laid, high-quality materials and the correct preventative maintenance not only reduces risk but also extends the life of your garden features, saving money and injury in the long run.”

A quick once-over before the grandchildren arrive, checking for loose slabs or splintered wood, can prevent an avoidable accident.

Enjoy the sunshine, safely

Bank holiday garden days are the stuff of childhood memories, ice lollies dripping down wrists, paddling pools on the lawn and stories under the parasol.

With temperatures soaring, a few small checks can make all the difference. Whether you are a parent dropping the kids off or a grandparent hosting for the day, taking ten minutes to scan for hazards means everyone can relax and enjoy the sunshine safely.

After all, the only tears this weekend should be over whose turn it is on the swing, not a trip to A&E.

Authors

Ruairidh PritchardDigital Growth Lead

Ruairidh is the Digital Lead on MadeForMums. He works with a team of fantastically talented content creators and subject-matter experts on MadeForMums.