How do you avoid accidents on a trampoline? It can be a wild and unpredictable device, but you can minimize danger by controlling the activity taking place on the surface of the contraption. Let's talk a bit about what you can do to ensure child safety on a seemingly unpredictable toy.
First of all, always make sure the springs are fully covered to minimize the chance of someone landing on them and getting hurt. These days, you can even get a spring-free trampoline, but if you don?t have one, you should use a cover at the very minimum. Many trampoline related injuries have to do with the springs themselves impacting with a head or pinching and tearing skin.
The next thing you need to do to is make sure only one person uses the trampoline at a time. Yes, this can be a bit difficult to enforce in the beginning, but with two children jumping at one time the risk greatly increases. Ideally, two jumpers would alternate in such a way that one child hits the surface before the other, but sometimes however, they both hit the surface at the same time which creates a rather disturbing imbalance.
This can create neck injuries or even cause one child to fly off of the trampoline. Not to mention the risk of jumping into each other by accident and receiving head injuries as a result.
On the subject of flying off, even the best nets will not stop the occasional accident, so make sure there are no sharp objects or poles in the yard. If you have anything of this nature in your yard, a serious injury or even death can occur. Maintain a safe distance from outside structures or debris of any kind at all.
The final thing that you should do is make sure that the trampoline is properly anchored to the ground. Yes, this can sometimes be a tall order, but it should be done for the sake of safety. The last thing you want is to have the trampoline bouncing around while the children are jumping on it. If you do not plan to move the trampoline for some time, you could place clamps on the legs and have concrete poured around them.
Trampolines are a great tool for backyard play, promoting both health and well being. And while keeping them safe can be a lot of work, it is entirely worth it when you consider the benefits. Trampolines are great for exercise, great for developing motor skills, and even building confidence. So long as you follow these basic safety precautions, the kids are sure to have a great time.