22 Safety Precautions When Using 10 ft Trampolines

Trampolines are popular among children and parents because it’s a fun way to do an exercise. They are widely available in most garden centers and DIY stores, and considered as one of the most wanted gifts for children aged six to thirteen. However, parents should ensure the safety of their children before putting up one in their own backyard.

Like any other toys, a 10 ft trampoline should be used with safety. Bumps and bruises are part of children’s lives when they are growing up, but serious injuries should be prevented. Injuries are greatly reduced when parents or adults always keep safety precautions in mind.

Safety Precautions

While trampolines provide a way for kids to have their daily exercise, parents should read the manual before assembling a 10 ft trampoline and taking note of some safety precautions which are listed below:

1. Before assembly, the trampoline includes accessories and small parts that could pose as a choking hazard and should be kept away from kids under three years old.

2. The owner has the responsibility of making sure that users of the trampoline are adequately informed about its precautions and warnings. It should not be used by children and people with reduced mental, sensory, or physical capabilities, or lack of knowledge and experience, unless they will be provided with instruction or supervision.

3. It should be placed in a soft level surface, provided with at least 2.5 m in diameter of clear space around the unit. The mat should be given at least 7 m of space above it to ensure that the user has enough space to jump in.

4. It  is appropriate for children aged six years old and above.

5. The maximum user weight allowed for it is 120 kg.

6. Only one person at a time should be allowed.

7. Do not allow to use it without the enclosure net.

8. No somersaulting.

9. Trampoline should not be used when wet.

10. A person under the influence of drugs or alcohol should not use the trampoline, as their perception, balance and risk evaluation is affected, which could lead to injury.

11. There should be no activity allowed under the trampoline.

12. Footwear should not be worn when using it, you should be barefoot or wearing socks.

13. Check the trampoline before using, replace defective or worn parts.

14. Make sure that the frame padding is secure and correctly positioned before use.

15. Do not jump on or off the trampoline, just climb instead. It is dangerous to jump while  getting on it or from the trampoline to the ground when getting off. When mounting onto or dismounting from it, always use both hands to hold onto the frame. Do not use enclosure poles or springs as hand grips.

16. Always aim for the center when bouncing on the trampoline. To help control your bounce, focus your eyes on its edge. Bouncing along the edge of the mat can stretch the springs and lead to injury. The frame pad is not created to support the trampoline user’s weight.

17. Bouncing can be stopped by flexing your knees as the feet touch the mat. It is essential that the user learns this before attempting any other tricks.

18. Bouncing too high should be avoided. They should stay low until they can control their bounce and repeatedly land in the mat’s center.

19. Use it for trampoline style bouncing and avoid using it as a springboard to other objects.

20. Avoid bouncing on the trampoline right after a meal.

21. Remove jewelry before using the trampoline as it may cause injury to the user or cause damage to the trampoline.

22. Allow the use of it under adult supervision only.

Other Important Notes

Here are some other things that people should take note on when allowing kids to play in the trampoline.

• Around 75 percent of injuries happen when more than one person uses the trampoline at the same time. The person which is more likely to be injured is the one who weighs less.
• Children below six years of age are especially vulnerable to injury.
• Injuries can happen to all parts of the body including the legs, head, arms, neck, and face. The most severe injuries related to it involve the head and neck.
• Choose a clear area away from trees, washing lines, pole, fences or other equipment.
• Install the trampoline on energy absorbing ground such as sand or soft and springy lawn.
• Do not place it on a hard surface such as hard packed mud or concrete without crash matting or safety net.
• Avoid using a ladder with the trampoline as it can provide unsupervised access to small children.

Final Thoughts

Trampolines provide opportunities for encouraging kids to exercise and develop their gross motor skills while having fun. But like any other physical activities, using it poses a risk of injury,  mainly if it is used improperly. Following the given safety precautions will help ensure safety and fun for you and your loved ones.