The Hazards Of Trampolines

A trampoline, an apparatus made by stretching a taut canvas over a frame, is a device used for fitness, gymnastics and for backyard entertainment. In 2000, trampolining was included in the Summer Olympics. In January 2011, KCBS in San Francisco reported that a trampoline dodge ball league for grownups was all the rage. The problem is, trampolines are not very safe.

Statistics

In 1998, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported at least 95,000 hospital emergency room injuries associated with trampoline use. An estimated 75 percent of injured users are 15 years old, 10 percent are younger than the age of 5. Six trampoline-related deaths have been reported to the CPSC since 1990. The injuries associated with trampoline use include collisions between two or more people; landing improperly, falling or jumping off the device and falling on the springs or frame. Injuries occur most often in homes and backyards rather than in supervised locations, including gyms and recreation centers. And most injuries occur on full-size trampolines rather than mini trampolines.

Injuries

An estimated 246,875 trampoline-related injuries require medical treatment each year, according to the American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons. Kids are most at risk of injury from trampoline use, averaging 186,405 serious injuries a year. The most common trampoline hazards are fractures to the arms or legs, spine injuries, head and neck traumas. The top-reported injuries in children occur when more than one child is on the device at once. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests keeping trampolines out of homes -- and backyards.

Possible Hazards

The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors can think of dozens of dangerous trampoline-related scenarios and compiled a list so that you can be safe. Surround your trampoline with a net. Safety nets have been shown to reduce the number of injuries from falling off trampolines, jumping off incorrectly and landing on springs and the frame. Supervise minors at all times. Cover springs, frames, hooks and edges in safety pads. Never put your backyard trampoline on the pavement or asphalt. Place it on a soft surface, including woodchips or rubber mulch. Don't install your trampoline near power lines, trees or clotheslines. Inspect your trampoline regularly for tears, rust, sharp edges and corners.

Attractive Nuisance

Insurance companies consider trampolines an "attractive nuisance." An attractive nuisance refers to something that attracts trespassers, especially children. Insurance companies are reluctant to provide coverage for owning a trampoline. If you have a trampoline in your backyard, as an attractive nuisance, you have a duty to post warnings and take action to protect others from the possible dangers. In 2000, an Indiana mother gave her 7-year-old child permission to use a trampoline in a neighbor's backyard, knowing the neighbor was not home. After the child got hurt while jumping on the device with three other children, the mother filed a lawsuit against the trampoline owner. According to court documents, the neighbors "had constructive knowledge of this danger, knew or should have known that neighborhood children might use their trampoline without permission, and did not take reasonable steps to prevent injury."