Trampoline Safety

Trampoline safety is essential when buying a trampoline as accidents with trampolines are common. These can include injuries to various parts of the body with neck and head injuries the most serious.

Accidents are most likely to occur when more then one person is using the trampoline at the same time with the person who weighs less five times more likely to be injured.

When buying a trampoline look carefully at the different models available. Some models are safer then others and some trampolines promoted as safe and well designed can actually contain unsafe characteristics and poor construction.

Unsafe Trampoline Models

For example springfree trampolines have been promoted as safe due to the use of spring rods rather then springs and bouncier then most spring trampolines. However the following springfree trampoline review showed that the trampolines surface rotates slightly during use which could result in long term damage to the knees. It also showed that these trampolines are actually less bouncy then most spring trampolines.

Cheap elastic models such as the Variflex Airzone trampoline are very lightweight and have a weak frame that can result in the trampoline tipping over or breaking during use. Also the bounce has been demonstrated to be inferior to the more common spring trampolines. Check out the following review of the Variflex airzone trampoline for more details.

If you can afford it try not to buy a cheap trampoline as they often will not come with safety pads or safety nets which protect the user from falls and hard surfaces. Try and purchase a model that come with safety pads that cover all the springs and consider a model that comes with a safety net as part of the design.

Tips for Using a Trampoline Safely

Find a clear area free from sharp or hard surfaces such as fences, trees or toys and ideally positioned on top of a soft surface. Also insure that the surface is level as this can help prevent the trampoline tipping over.

Before use check the frame for damage, that the trampoline is well supported on the ground and that any leg braces are locked in place.

Remove sharp objects such as jewellery, watches, electronic devices such as ipods etc.

Consider only allowing one child to use the trampoline at any one time particularly if the trampoline is small in size. This can significantly reduce the risk of injury.

Ensure your child is aware of the risks and the Dos and Don’ts of using a trampoline.

DO NOT go under the trampoline when it’s in use
DO NOT jump off the trampoline while bouncing.
DO NOT try somersaults without proper instruction
DO bounce in the middle of the trampoline rather then near the sides.
DO stand back from the trampoline when it is in use.

You should also watch your children to prevent accidents and ensure you can react quickly should an accident occur.