
Round Trampoline 3
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Trampolines are amazing fun for the whole family if care is taken and children are
taught the right and safe way to use them.
Trampolining is a popular activity which provides children with both physical exercise
and enjoyment. The injury risks associated with trampolining are high, and can have
serious consequences
Trampolines are a fun way to exercise and help to develop co-ordination, balance and
motor skills. However, they need to be used appropriately as they are also the cause
of many injuries to children. Injuries can occur when children fall off or hit the side of
the trampoline, impact one another or sustain injuries from double bounce.
Younger children are at risk as they can wander underneath and get hit when
someone bounces above them. Injuries can include cuts, bruises, sprains and
fractures and the most severe risks include injuries to the child’s brain and spine.
Trampolines require regular inspection and maintenance and children should always
be supervised when using one.
Most trampolines now come with a safety net or enclosure and we strongly
recommend you only use a trampoline with a net or enclosure installed. This is a safety
precaution and aims to prevent children falling off the trampoline and also to absorb
the impact of any potential falls before the child reaches the padding.
Inspect the trampoline before each use to make sure that the mat does not have
holes, the frame is not bent, the springs are securely attached, the frame padding
is correctly and securely positioned, and the leg braces are securely locked. A
trampoline in poor condition will increase risk of injuries. Inspect the trampoline before
each use for bent steel tubes, torn mat, loose orbroken springs, and overall stability of
the trampoline.
Make sure that the surface under and around the trampoline (the safe fall zone) is soft
- use wood chips, sand, or cushioning material. The safe fall zone should be at least
two metres wide on all four sides of the trampoline.
Keep the safe fall zone clear from hazards such as fences, toys, and overhead objects
like clothes lines, trees and wires. A minimum overhead clearance of eight metres
from ground level is recommended.
Make sure that children are supervised at all times. Take particular care with children
under six years of age.
DO NOT use the trampoline if there are pets, other people, or any objects underneath
the trampoline. This will increase the chances of an injury occurring. DO NOT hold