TRAMPOLINE SAFETY TIPS:

WHAT INJURIES CAN BE CAUSED BY TRAMPOLINE USE?

Most children who get injured are in the 10 to 14 year age group.
Serious injuries can occur to all parts of the body especially the neck, head, arms, legs and face. The type of injury is most often fractures followed by strain/sprains.
Head and neck injuries are the most serious injury and usually occur when trying to do flips, either backwards or forwards landing on their head instead of their feet – causing paralysis in some cases.
Injuries and deaths can be caused by:

Colliding with another person on the trampoline.
Landing improperly while jumping or doing stunts.
Falling or jumping off the trampoline
Falling on the trampoline springs or frame.

HOW ARE MOST INJURIES CAUSED?

Almost 75% of injuries result when more than one person is on the trampoline at the same time. The person weighing less is 5 times more likely to be injured than the heavier person.
More than half of all injuries occur while the child is being supervised by an adult.

HERE ARE SOME SIMPLE RULES:

Location of the trampoline:

Make sure the area is clear of object, trees, fences, poles etc.

Set the trampoline where an energy-absorbing surface (grass) surrounds it with at least 10 feet (3 meters) on all sides and a minimum of 20 unobstructed feet (6 meters) above it.

If possible lower the height to ground level by putting the trampoline in a pit.

Before using the trampoline:

1. Buy and use a frame pad that covers the entire spring system

2. Replace any worn or missing parts before use.

3. Set rules for the trampoline and discuss them frequently with your children.

4. Tell children of the risks of not using the trampoline correctly.

5. Have children remove all necklaces.

No child under 6 years of age should use a full size trampoline. Do not use a ladder to access the trampoline – provides unsupervised access to small children.

Allow only one person on the trampoline at a time

Do not attempt or allow somersaults because landing on the head or neck can cause paralysis. If you do attempt complex tricks or somersaults have spotters and ensure the person is experienced and skilled enough to perform these maneuvers.

Do not allow bouncing followed by jumping off the trampoline – most injuries occur on landing!

Do not use the trampoline without shock-absorbing pads to completely cover the spring system.

Keep your bouncing low, under control and to the center of the trampoline. Perform “stop bounce” after every skill or sequence of skills or if you deviate from the center of the trampoline.

Do not use the trampoline if under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Do not stand near the trampoline when someone is using it and do not go under it either!