Hospitals, doctors' offices and clinics treated 211,646 trampoline-related injuries in children under age 19 in 2003, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. In fact, the risk of trampoline-related injuries is so high that the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends never setting up trampolines at home or on playgrounds. Although trampoline injuries rarely result in death, they commonly cause injuries such as sprains, bone fractures and occasionally paralysis. Some of these risks can be reduced if responsible adults observe some basic safety guidelines.
Set Up
Before allowing anyone to jump on the trampoline, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends following a few basic procedures. First, place the trampoline on ground level at least 10 feet away from trees and any other structures. Second, be sure that shock-absorbing pads cover the trampoline's frame, hooks and springs. Finally, install a net around the perimeter of the trampoline but know that it isn't a substitute for adult supervision. According to the Foundation for Spinal Cord Injury Prevention, Care & Cure, netting hasn't been extensively proven to reduce the trampoline injury rate because it won't reduce or eliminate injuries or death that occur on the surface of the trampoline but can only offer a safeguard against falls from the trampoline.
Minimum Age
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends not allowing children under age 6 to use a trampoline, even under supervision. To prevent young children from obtaining unsupervised access to the trampoline, don't install a ladder by the trampoline. If you do choose to install a trampoline ladder, be sure that it is removed every time the trampoline isn't in use.
While Jumping
Keep an eye on children while they use the trampoline to ensure that they take turns jumping one at a time. Also forbid somersaults on the trampoline unless it is being used under direct supervision of a trained gymnastics coach. Finally, be sure that the trampoline area is well-lit during use and never allow children to jump onto the trampoline from high objects.
High-Risk Supervision
Coaches should employ extra diligence in supervising jumpers when a trampoline is being used for purposes such as physical education, diving training and competitive gymnastics. This includes ensuring that a jumper is adequately instructed before he attempts a high-risk maneuver, spotting him as he jumps and providing protective equipment such as harnesses during training sessions.
References
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Trampolines and Trampoline Safety
- Lucile Packard Children's Hospital: Sports Injury Statistics
- Mayo Clinic: Trampoline Jumping---Safe for Kids?
- Foundation for Spinal Cord Injury Prevention, Care & Cure: Trampoline Injuries
- American Academy of Pedatrics: Trampolines Unsafe for Children at Any Age
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