Trampolines can be a source of great fun and exercise for you and your family when used properly. Incorrect use, however, can result in serious injury. To protect your family and friends from harm, you need to understand the safety rules associated with using a trampoline and net as well as the potential dangers of misuse.
Educate
If you own a recreational trampoline, you are responsible for the education of all users on how to safely utilize the apparatus. Before putting a trampoline in your backyard, read the manufacturer's instructions for building and maintaining the structure. Know all maker and industry warnings so that you can educate your family and friends of potential hazards. Thoroughly research the different products available before buying a certain trampoline. Purchasing the safest model can help you avoid injuries due to merchandise malfunctions.
Safety Net
The purpose of a safety net is to keep users from falling off should they lose balance when jumping. The effectiveness of the net can be compromised by attaching items that are not recommended by the manufacturer. The supervisor should ensure that the net's door is securely fastened after each new user enters the trampoline, especially if that user is a child.
Rules
A mature adult should provide close supervision during the use of a trampoline. No more than one person should be on the trampoline at a time. Prohibit somersaults and flips. Jump in the center of the trampoline. Do not allow users to jump over, crawl under, or jump into the netting. Kicking, hitting or climbing the netting can cause injury and comprise the effectiveness of the structure. Users should not wear drawstrings, hooks, scarves or any other article that could get hung up on the netting.
Maintenance
A routine maintenance check should be performed each time the trampoline is used. Check every aspect of the trampoline and netting for proper installation, bent poles, and defective or missing pieces. Be sure that the netting and mat are not showing signs of wear, rips, punctures or frays. The presence of any potential problems should prompt you to take down the trampoline until the issue can be resolved and reassembled properly.
Warning
According to CBS News, trampoline injuries are responsible for 98,000 emergency room visits each year, some instances resulting in paralysis or death. The use of a safety net can reduce a user's risk of injury by 50 percent, but it does not eliminate all danger. According to the website, Trampoline Safety, falling into a safety net can cause some trampoline models to tip over or allow users to still hit the ground with dangerous force.
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