Trampoline Safety

Keeping Kids and Trampolines Safe

Trampolines have a bit of a reputation for injuries so trampoline safety should be one of the first conversations you have with your kids after getting them a new trampoline.

It’s great to see new safety features coming out all the time, enclosures and improved pads in particular do make trampolines much safer.

But it is still important to take the time to teach your kids about what is and is not safe which will help keep the trampoline as a fun and safe piece of play equipment for your family.

Keeping Kids Safe on Trampolines

There are two main aspects when we consider safety on trampolines

  • The positioning and assembly of your trampoline
  • Safety of users – kids and adults!

Assembly and Positioning of Your Trampoline

Many of the following guidelines relate to trampolines without safety enclosures (which are much easier to fall off), but much of it is still recommended whether your trampoline has as safety net or otherwise.

  • Adequate space is required around your trampoline- 6 feet in all directions is recommended, making sure the trampoline is free of overhead wires, overhanging branches from trees and fences.
trampoline safety - involves careful placement, assembly and use

A well positioned trampoline with plenty of space around it and no overhead impediments

  • If you are concerned about overhead impediments at all, then a minimum clearance of 15 feet is required for the safety of bouncers. (Yes some kids bounce REALLY high and like to do somersaults!)
  • When choosing an area for your trampoline attempt to put it somewhere with an energy-absorbing surface (eg. grass) around it, or even better is to lower your trampoline into a pit so that it sits at ground level.
  • When assembling your trampoline make sure all directions are followed, this ensures ongoing safety for all users.
  • Make sure your trampoline has a frame pad which covers all the springs of the trampoline to prevent injury. More details in Trampoline Accessories
  • Regularly check your trampoline for safety issues- springs, jumping mat and the frame pads. More details in Trampoline Accessories

Safety for Trampoline Bouncers

  • Children of preschool age should always be supervised when trampolining.
  • Only one person should bounce on the trampoline at a time. Most trampoline accidents have been found to be caused when more than one person was using the trampoline, rather than users falling off the trampoline, as previously thought.
  • The trampoline should only be used in suitable weather. Gusty winds and rain can be highly hazardous. Never jump on a wet trampoline as it becomes very slippery. If you live in an area that receives snow, then be sure to remove the snow before it has time to accumulate as it will cause the springs to stretch.

** We know it might sound like a lot of rules and regulations, but just like any piece of play equipment- jungle gyms, bikes…, by setting them up right and setting out some basic rules in the beginning you will give your kids many years of enjoyment out of them (and hopefully less trips to the doctor or dentist for you!).

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