For children and adults alike a trampoline in the back yard can be an endless place of fun, however, they are also the place where many injuries occur. If you own a trampoline, how can you make sure it continues to be a source of enjoyment and not a safety hazard? Here are a few safety guidelines:
Trampolines are made up of lots of metal springs and other parts which can be very dangerous to land on so it’s important that these parts are covered in padding. Another safety factor is the location of the trampoline if someone were to fall off, what type of surface would they land on? Place the trampoline on wood chips or another spongy surface. A safety net is advisable also to prevent anyone from falling off the trampoline at all.
Children love jumping on a trampoline all at the same time but, while it may be fun to do so, this greatly increases the chance that someone will get hurt. Supervise young children while they are using it and only allow one person on it at a time.
Before someone decides to have a go on a trampoline, it’s important that they think about their own fitness level. While it looks easy and fun if a person is not normally very active or has a pre-existing injury, especially to the head or neck, using a trampoline could cause even more damage.
So, although a trampoline can be a fun activity and great exercise, a homeowner has the responsibility to ensure the safety of those who use it.