Trampolines can provide hours of fun, jumping up and down on the equipment. They can range from small indoor trampolines, to large outdoor trampolines. You can also find a variety of brands, heights, prices, styles and more. This can offer a wide variety of ways to enjoy trampolines.
However, it is also important to make trampoline jumping as safe as possible. While there are many ways to accomplish this, one of the most effective ways is to develop and follow a safety checklist. This will help ensure that the trampoline is ready for kids, teens, and even adults to jump on. The good news is that you can add some basic items to the checklist to make the equipment as safe as possible.
Making a Safety Checklist and Checking It Twice
A trampoline needs to be installed correctly before anyone uses it. You should always do a spot check before each jumping session. However, you should do a more serious checking from time to time.
This will help to catch any possible problems related to the form and function of the trampoline. That in turn will help to avoid various problems that could result in injuries.
Here are some important issues:
1. Mat/Net Condition
It’s important to make sure that there aren’t any holes in the items. It might seem like it might just be an aesthetic issue. However, if there’s an issue with the structural integrity of the trampoline it could cause various problems.
2. Springs
These are some of the most important parts of a trampoline that are often overlooked. Damaged or missing springs can cause a lot of problems for trampoline owners and users. First, make sure that all trampoline springs are on the unit. This is important because missing springs can cause a lot of problems in terms of the trampoline’s operation.
In addition to this, you should also check to see if there are any damaged springs that need to be replaced. Make sure that the springs are securely attached at both ends. These may seem like tedious tests, but they are certainly worth it in terms of the overall functionality of the trampoline.
3. Level Surface
Make sure the legs of the trampoline are standing on a level area. The area must be horizontal so that the trampoline does not wobble when in use.
You should also check that the area above the trampoline is free. Look for garden furniture, fences, wires, walls, and other objects that might obstruct the area where people can jump on the trampoline. If jumpers get tangled up with these objects, it can cause a lot of problems.
For example, if they cause jumpers to trip or fall, it can create an even worse situation. This highlights the need to keep the area on and around the trampoline as clear as possible.
4. Jumper Agreement
Make sure that all kids or teens who use the trampoline agree to an agreement for all jumpers. There should be important issues such as:
- Taking turns when jumping
- Time limits on the trampoline
- Not doing any tricks or wild jumping styles
- Not only onto objects when jumping
If you can think of any other good protocol rules, you should definitely include them. They will help make jumping safe for anyone who uses the trampoline. You should make sure that the kids sign the agreement and that these rules are enforced. Once they start jumping, there is no guarantee that they will be followed. They may forget, or simply decide that it is more fun to break the rules.
5. Play Clothes
Children jumping on the trampoline must have appropriate clothing to reduce safety hazards when using the equipment. For example, make sure children’s clothing is free of loops, drawstrings, hooks or other things that could get caught on the mesh.
Another important item to include on the checklist is jewelry. This can cause all sorts of problems due to sharp edges that could accidentally hit a jumper in the face while they are on the trampoline. Make sure you take off the jewelry before using the trampoline.
6. Toys/Objects
Make sure toys and other items are cleaned off the trampoline mat. You should not only clean up toys, but also other items such as leaves, branches, twigs, etc., that can pose a safety hazard to people jumping on the trampoline.
Remember that while these items may seem harmless, they can cause all sorts of problems such as slips, trips, and even falls. Ensuring that the trampoline’s mat is 100% transparent will help improve the safety of the equipment.
7. Frame and leg braces
Make sure they are locked in a stable manner. This will help provide adequate support for the trampoline. This is critical because it will help keep the trampoline stable and safe. The legs themselves are some of the most important items on the trampoline. However, the brace is especially important to ensure that the legs have adequate support. Without this, there is a chance that the trampoline will wobble or even collapse while in use. Be sure to check the frame and leg supports to prevent this from happening.
8. Safety Accessories
You can add a variety of safety accessories to add extra security to the trampoline. They include safety enclosures, anchoring kits, ladders, and more. There are tons of safety accessories available, and they can all help make a trampoline safer. The key is to figure out which accessories will be most effective in improving safety.
Trampolines can definitely be one of the most fun pieces of jumping equipment, whether used indoors or outdoors. However, it is equally important that the equipment is as safe as it is fun. One way to do this is to use a safety checklist. This will help make trampoline jumping as fun as possible. Keep in mind that checklists are only effective if they are used and enforced. This will help to make trampolining the best it can be.
Conclusion
Always remember that the safety of yourself and your family should be paramount when enjoying a trampoline. Following these basic precautions can help you stay safe so you can continue to enjoy this popular backyard activity.