It's a valid concern many park visitors share: the unsettling possibility of wooden bench slats snapping during use. While properly maintained wooden park benches are generally reliable, slat breakage does occur under specific circumstances.
The most common causes include prolonged weather exposure causing wood rot, untreated insect damage creating structural weaknesses, or simple material fatigue from years of constant use. Pressure-treated hardwood benches typically last longer than those made from softer woods.
Regular maintenance significantly reduces breakage risks. Look for visible cracks, warping, or discoloration - these often precede failure. Municipal parks departments usually conduct routine inspections, but reporting any concerns you notice helps ensure public safety.
While not an everyday occurrence, being mindful of a bench's condition before sitting is always wise. Proper construction and seasonal maintenance make slat breakage relatively uncommon in well-managed public spaces.