Hide & Seek Kids OSCAR CUBBY HOUSE ATH010 Owner's Manual & Safety Guide

Introduction

Welcome to the Hide & Seek Kids Safety Manual. The safety of your children is paramount, and this comprehensive guide is designed to help you provide a safe and enjoyable play experience. Please read this manual thoroughly before assembly and use.

This product is warranted for RESIDENTIAL USE ONLY. Under no circumstance should a Hide & Seek Kids product be used in public settings.

WARNING! To reduce the risk of serious injury or death, you must read and follow these instructions.

Please do not throw out this manual; retain for future reference.

Adult assembly is required. Not suitable for Children under 3 years, due to sharp points and small parts.

Safe Play and Pre-Installation Considerations

General Safety Instructions for Children

• Adult supervision on-site is always essential.
• Instruct children to refrain from climbing when the equipment is wet.
• Advise children against crawling on the roof of the playhouse.
• Parents should ensure children are dressed appropriately, wearing well-fitting shoes. Loose attire, including scarves and ponchos, should be avoided. Always secure or remove cords and drawstrings on children's clothing to prevent entanglement with playground equipment, which could pose a strangulation risk.
• Children should not walk in front of, behind, between, or close to moving rides.
• Discourage children from attaching items to the equipment that are not designed for its use, such as ropes, clotheslines, or pet leashes.
• Prior to playing on the playground equipment, children should remove their bike or sports helmet.
• Sliding headfirst or running up the slide is not permitted.
• Before sliding, children should look to ensure that no one is at the bottom of the slide.
• On sunny or hot days, it is advisable to check the slide and plastic rides for heat to prevent burns. If hot, cool them down with water and dry before use.
• While using the playset, children must wear closed-toe and closed-heel footwear. Open-toe or heel footwear like sandals, flip-flops, or clogs are not suitable and should not be worn.

Warnings and Safe Play Instructions

CONTINUOUS ADULT SUPERVISION REQUIRED. Most serious injuries and deaths on playground equipment have occurred while children were unsupervised! Our products are designed to meet mandatory and voluntary safety standards. Complying with all warnings and recommendations in these instructions will reduce the risk of serious or fatal injury to children using this play system. Go over the warnings and safe play instructions regularly with your children and make certain that they understand and follow them. Remember on-site adult supervision is required for children of all ages.

⚠️ SERIOUS HEAD INJURY HAZARD: Installation over concrete, asphalt, dirt, grass, carpet and other hard surface creates a risk of serious injury or death from falls to the ground. Install and maintain shock absorbing material under and around play-set as recommended.

⚠️ COLLISION HAZARD: Place play-set on level ground at least 2m from any obstruction such as a garage or house, fences, poles, trees, sidewalks, walls, landscape timbers, rocks, pavement, planters, garden borders, overhanging branches, laundry lines, and electrical wires.

⚠️ CHOKING HAZARD/SHARP EDGES & POINTS: Adult assembly required. This product contains small parts and parts with sharp edges and points. Keep parts away from children until fully assembled.

⚠️ WARNING LABEL: Owners shall be responsible for maintaining the legibility of the warning labels.

⚠️ STRANGULATION HAZARD: NEVER allow children to play with ropes, clotheslines, pet leashes, cables, chains or cord-like items when using this play-set or to attach these items to play-set. NEVER allow children to wear loose fitting clothing, ponchos, hoods, scarves, capes, necklaces, items with draw-strings, cords or ties when using this play-set. NEVER allow children to wear bike or sport helmets when using this play-set. Failure to prohibit these items, even helmets with chin straps, increases the risk of serious injury and death to children from entanglement and strangulation.

⚠️ TIP OVER HAZARD: Choose a level location for the equipment. This can reduce the likelihood of the play set tipping over and loose-fill surfacing materials washing away during heavy rains. DO NOT allow children to play on the play-set until the assembly is complete and the unit is properly anchored.

⚠️ Safe Play Instructions:

• Observe capacity limitations of your play-set.
• ✔️ Dress children with well fitting and full foot enclosing footwear.
• ✔️ Check for splintered, broken or cracked wood; missing, loose, or sharp edged hardware. Replace, tighten and or sand smooth as required prior to playing.
• ❌ Do not allow children to wear open toe or heel footwear like sandals, flip-flops or clogs.
• ❌ Do not permit climbing on equipment when it is wet.
• ❌ Do not permit rough play or use of equipment in a manner for which it was not intended. Standing on or jumping from the roof can be dangerous.

Playhouse, Playset Selection and Pre-Installation Considerations

Site Selection

Choose a level, well-drained area away from obstacles such as trees, fences, and structures. Do not install home playground equipment over concrete, asphalt, packed earth, grass, carpet, or any other hard surface. A fall onto a hard surface can result in serious injury to the equipment user. Do not install Playsets loose fill surfacing over hard surfaces such as concrete or asphalt. Shredded bark mulch, wood chips, fine sand and fine gravel, are added as shock absorbing materials after assembly. If used properly these materials can absorb some of the impact of a child's fall. All surface material should extend a minimum of 6 feet in all directions around the play area.

Playhouse Placement

Proper placement of a playhouse is crucial to ensure its longevity and the safety of the children playing inside. Moisture is one of the most significant factors that can impact a playhouse's lifespan. Placing the playhouse in an area with good drainage can help prevent moisture buildup. It's also essential to ensure that the playhouse is not situated in a low-lying area that is prone to flooding. Adequate ventilation is another critical consideration, as it helps to prevent condensation buildup and reduces the risk of Mold growth.

Place your playhouse at least 2m from any structure or obstruction.

To further minimize moisture, it's recommended to use a waterproof cover during extended periods of wet/snowy weather. By taking the time to carefully choose the right location for your playhouse and ensuring proper moisture management, you can enjoy your investment for many years to come.

Support Base for Playhouses

A support base is an essential part of Playhouse assembly; a support base keeps your playhouse off the ground and away from moisture. The easiest base to construct for your playhouse (on the ground cubby) is using timber sleepers. Support must be used for all floor joins and under all walls to limit movement.

Why using pavers as a base for playhouses is not recommended: It is not recommended to place pavers directly underneath a playhouse due to the potential for uneven settling and movement over time, which can lead to instability and safety hazards. Instead, it is recommended to level the ground and use a suitable base material such as timber sleepers or a concrete slab to provide a stable foundation. This will help to ensure the playhouse remains level and secure, reducing the risk of accidents or damage. Additionally, using a suitable base material will also assist with drainage and prevent water pooling around the playhouse, which can lead to moisture damage and other issues.

Painting

Hide and Seek Kids Playhouses are finished in a temporary water-based stain, which is intended to protect the timber during storage and transport. However, the Playhouse will need to be painted with a high-quality primer and paint to provide long-term protection from the elements and to give it a personalised touch.

Painting the Playhouse before assembly is easier and ensures all parts of the house are coated. It is also important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for painting, including preparing the timber surface, choosing the right type of paint, and applying the paint evenly with a brush.

Proper painting of the Playhouse can extend its lifespan and keep it looking great for years to come. We highly recommend painting the entire playhouse (min 2 coats of each) with:

• Dedicated exterior timber primer.
• Exterior timber paint

Note: Ensure the dedicated exterior primer provides mould resistance and stain blocking of tannin and flash rust. An exterior primer also prepares the timber for a superior paint finish extending the life of the playhouse. Avoid using just the exterior grade paint with the primer incorporated into it, as they do not offer the same features of a dedicated exterior primer.

Paint Brush vs Spraying: Painting a playhouse can be a fun DIY project that can also help protect the timber from weathering and wear over time. While using a spray gun can be sometimes faster, it does not provide the coverage and thickness as using a brush. Using a brush also allows for better coverage and penetration of the paint into the wood, helping to create a longer-lasting finish.

Care & Maintenance

Regular care and maintenance of your Playset/Playhouse is required. This will help prolong the life of the product and reduce the possibility of injury. Neglecting this can lead to a risk for users.

At the beginning of each play season

• ✔️ Tighten all hardware.
• ✔️ Lubricate all metallic moving parts per manufacturer's instructions.
• ✔️ Check all protective coverings on bolts, pipes, edges, and corners. Replace if they are loose, cracked, or missing.
• ✔️ Check all moving parts including swing seats, ropes, cables, and chains for wear, rust, or other deterioration. Replace as needed.
• ✔️ Check metal parts for rust. If found, sand and repaint using a non-lead-based paint meeting the requirements of 16 CFR 1303.
• ✔️ Check all wood members for deterioration and splinters. Sand down splinters and replace deteriorating wood members.
• ✔️ Reinstall any plastic parts, such as swing seats or any other items that were removed for the cold season.
• ✔️ Rake and check depth of loose protective surfacing materials to prevent compaction and to maintain appropriate depth. Replace as necessary.

Playhouse Maintenance

Playhouses are a great addition to any backyard, but like any outdoor equipment, they require regular maintenance to keep them in good condition. Regularly cleaning the Playhouse with a mild detergent and water can help prevent the buildup of dirt and grime. It's also important to inspect the timber for any signs of wear, rot, or damage. If any issues are found, they should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Applying a sealant and paint can also help protect the timber from moisture and pests. Additionally, it's important to regularly check any screws or bolts for tightness, as these can loosen over time due to weather conditions and use. By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your Playhouse stays in top condition for years to come.

Playset Assembly, Installation, and Anchoring

Pre-Assembly Checks

Review all components, hardware, and instructions. Confirm you have all necessary tools.

Installation Steps

Follow the step-by-step instructions meticulously, securing all connections firmly.

Anchoring Procedures

Use appropriate ground anchors and follow manufacturer guidelines for securely anchoring the playset to the ground.

Playset Components, Features, and Inspection

Component Identification

Familiarize yourself with playset parts, including swings, slides, ladders, and climbing structures. The document includes a comprehensive part list, detailing each component with a corresponding number and quantity. This section is crucial for verifying all parts are present before assembly.

Regular Inspection Checklist

Routinely inspect for rust, splinters, chipped paint, loose hardware, and wear. Address any issues promptly.

Safety Guidelines for Children

Proper Attire

Children should wear appropriate clothing and footwear, avoiding loose items that could get caught.

Age-Appropriate Activities

Encourage children to engage in activities suitable for their age and developmental stage.

Safe Play Practices

Teach children to avoid pushing, shoving, or rough play. Emphasize safe climbing and sliding techniques.

Adult Supervision and Interaction

Supervision

An adult must be present whenever children are using the playset. Never leave children unattended.

Interaction

Engage with children, encouraging safe play, assisting when needed, and setting a positive example.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Seasonal Maintenance

Regularly inspect and clean the playset. Lubricate moving parts and tighten hardware as needed. Ensure there are no cracks or missing paint; if there is, prime and paint.

Repairs and Replacements

Repair or replace damaged components immediately using manufacturer-approved parts.

Emergency Procedures

First Aid Kit and Location

Maintain a well-stocked first aid kit nearby and ensure everyone knows its location.

Contact Numbers

Have emergency contact numbers accessible, including local medical services and poison control.

Manufacturer and Customer Support

Contact Information

For inquiries, support, or reporting safety concerns, refer to the manufacturer's contact details provided in the manual.

Warranty Details

Understand the playset's warranty coverage, terms, and conditions.

Important Notes

• This manual serves as a guide and should be supplemented with local safety regulations and standards.
• Ensure compliance with ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) guidelines for play equipment.
• Educate children on the importance of following safety rules and guidelines.
• Regularly review and update the manual based on new information and experiences.

By adhering to this detailed Children's Playset Safety Manual, you are taking significant steps to create a secure environment where children can explore, play, and grow with confidence.

Warranty Information

[Warranty Seal]

Hide & Seek Kids warrants that our product is free from fault in materials and workmanship for a period of 1 year from the original date of purchase.

This warranty applies to the original owner and registrant and is nontransferable.

Regular maintenance is required to assure maximum life and performance of this product, and failure by the owner to maintain the product according to the maintenance requirements may void this warranty. Maintenance guidelines are provided in the Owner's Manual.

This warranty does NOT cover:

• Labor for replacement of faulty item
• Incidental or consequential damages
• Cosmetic defects which do not affect performance or integrity.
• Vandalism, improper use, or installation or acts of nature.
• Minor twisting, warping, checking or any other natural occurring properties of wood that do not affect performance or integrity.

Hide & Seek Kids prioritizes safety and quality in our product design. Alterations to the original product may compromise its structural integrity, resulting in failure and potential harm. Any modifications nullify all warranties, and Hide & Seek Kids holds no responsibility for altered products or the repercussions of their failure. This product is exclusively warranted for RESIDENTIAL USE ONLY, and using it in public settings may lead to product failure and pose a risk of injury. Public use voids the warranty. Hide & Seek Kids explicitly disclaims all other representations and warranties, whether express or implied. This Warranty provides specific legal rights, and additional rights may vary by state or province. While this warranty excludes consequential damages, some states do not permit the limitation or exclusion of such damages, and this limitation may not apply to you. Furthermore, modification voids all warranties.

Assembly Instructions Overview

The original document provides detailed step-by-step assembly instructions, accompanied by numerous diagrams. These diagrams illustrate the process of connecting various wooden and plastic components using different types of hardware (screws, bolts, etc.). The instructions guide users through building the main structure, attaching the roof, installing the ladder and slide, and ensuring all connections are secure. A comprehensive part list is also included, detailing each component with a corresponding number and quantity, which is essential for verifying all parts are present before assembly begins.