Trampolines are Terrific!

Is your backyard trampoline-friendly? 

• Trampolines must be placed on a flat surface that has a soft, energy-absorbing ground such as spongy lawn, bark wood chip or sand.  Do not place on concrete, asphalt, compacted clay or other hard surfaces. 

• The area around the trampoline (at least 2.5 meters) should be free of structures, trees, clotheslines or any other object that could injure the jumper. 

Have you read the manufacturer’s booklet? 

• Be sure that the trampoline has been properly installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. 

• Spring and leg braces should be secure and regular maintenance checks should be done. 

• Read carefully to see if there are any limitations such as maximum weight.

 Should you invest in trampoline accessories?

• The most important and worthwhile trampoline accessory is the “enclosure net” which keeps children from flying off of the trampoline.  It also cordons off the holes created by the springs which surround a trampoline pad. This may prevent injury caused by landing in between the springs, which can lead to lacerations or broken bones. 

• Another possible accessory is the safety pad that completely covers the springs, hooks and frame.  The pad should be a contrasting colour to the mat to clearly designate a no-bounce zone.  

Although both the enclosure net and/or safety pad are good safety measures, they do not replace responsible behavior or supervision.

• Finally, never place a ladder or step stool giving free access to the trampoline.  Children should get in the habit of asking for permission before using the trampoline, as they will need supervision.

What are the Non-Negotiable Rules? 

• Do not allow more than one person on the trampoline at a time.

Most injuries occur when sharing a trampoline pad, particularly to the person  weighing less (they are five times more likely to be hurt).

• Do not attempt flips or somersaults.  Always remain in control.  Serious injuries, paralysis or death may result.

Contact a local trampoline-training organization to learn the skills required with professional spotters, to do flips, stunts and aerobatics.

• Never go underneath the trampoline.  

• Never jump off the trampoline to disembark.  Stop bouncing and climb down. 

• Children require supervision. 

This entails that a grown-up observes the activity on the trampoline, enforces the safety rules and is on hand for any emergencies.

What do you do before getting on the trampoline?

• Respect your limitations. 
  Do not jump if you are pregnant or have circulatory ailments.

• Remove any jewelry or sharp objects from your pockets.

• Remove shoes.

• Do not eat food or chew gum while jumping.

• Prepare to have fun!

Tips for Trampoline Jumping

• Bounce in the centre of the pad and focus your eyes on the edge of the trampoline.  This will help you keep your balance.

• To stop your bounce, flex or bend your knees as your feet come in contact with the pad. 

• To prevent children from arguing over taking turns, have a sign up sheet (or a chalk board) and perhaps time limits or designated time slots.  They might have ideas of their own!
  

Return to top of page