Trampolines are a great way for kids to get exercise and spend time outdoors. But before you make the purchase, there are some important considerations. Read on for six things to think about before you buy a trampoline for your kids this summer.
1. Does Your Home Insurance Cover Trampolines?
For most homeowner’s insurance, you may need to purchase additional coverage or an umbrella policy that will protect you in case your child or a guest is injured while jumping on the trampoline.
2. Are You Able to Supervise?
Trampolines can be dangerous, particularly when kids don’t follow the rules. For best safety, only one child should jump at a time, and adults should always be watching. Think of the trampoline the same way you would a swimming pool–it should never be used without a responsible party present.
3. Can You Store the Trampoline in Inclement Weather?
Leaving a trampoline out in the yard in the rain and the snow can damage the springs, making it less safe to use and lessening “bounce.” You should also purchase a cover to keep it dry, since jumping on a wet surface can be very dangerous. These are just little helps that can prolong the life of your trampoline and optimize the safety.
4. Is There Room for it in Your Yard?
Even if you have a large outdoor space, it might not be ideal for a trampoline. The structure needs to be on completely level ground, a safe distance away from trees, decks, sheds, and other obstacles. Some trampoline owners have even gone as far as to make it ground level. Now, this takes a lot more effort, but if you are working with uneven ground and are worried for your child’s safety, this can be a great option.
5. How Much Are You Willing to Spend?
Buying a budget trampoline is a bad idea. The less you spend, the more likely you are to have a structure that is poorly built or constructed, which increases the likelihood of falls, collapses, and other injuries. By contrast, spending money on quality equipment will give you a safe trampoline that can last for years. Never purchase a used trampoline.
6. Are You Willing to Take the Necessary Safety Precautions?
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were over 83,800 trampoline injuries treated in emergency rooms in 2011. You can greatly reduce this risk by implementing recommended safety procedures: a net enclosure to prevent children from falling off the trampoline, a lock on the net entry so that it cannot be used without adult supervision. And if your children are going to be having friends over to play on the trampoline, injury attorney Joseph M. Todd, recommends having your friends parents sign a waiver to take the liability off your hands in case of an accident.
If you feel that your family can adapt to these requirements, then a trampoline can be a great way to have fun in the sun this summer.
Earnest Parenting: help for parents who want to use trampolines safely.
Image courtesy of foilman via Creative Commons license, some rights reserved.
In regards to number 2, it amazes me how many parents assume that trampolines are substitutions for babysitters. Supervision is key! Great post!
These are definitely things to consider when purchasing a trampoline. When I was a kid I broke my leg on a trampoline, however, these days they are SO much safer. My sister and I were shopping for one for her kids last week, we ended up choosing a Springfree trampoline. Wow. These things are so much more technologically advanced than when I was a kid. The thing is basically impossible to injure yourself on! I mean, if you are playing like a mad man, maybe. But the structure is so well protected you can throw yourself to any edge and you’ll just bounce back!
Warren, I hope you got an enclosure. I feel so much safer with the kids in an enclosed tramp. Although there is still room for accident and injury, at least they can’t fall to the ground or get stuck in the springs.
I couldn’t agree more with the fact that you shouldn’t look for the cheapest trampoline. Kids spend hours on these things, and as you have mentioned the cheaper trampolines are not as safe as some of the upper end trampolines. Good point mentioning the insurance policy, I think a lot of homeowners neglect to consider this before purchasing a trampoline.
sporty with trampoline very good specially to children because to train coordination ability and their leg strength
Now trampoline related injuries is going down, according to LAURA GEGGEL from NYtimes. However, caution is urged by many doctors due to many serous case, including dead case in hospitals.
In my opinion, if kids can be familliar with trampolines, they will learn how to keep safe with them.
Wow,great post.really thank you! Much obliged.specially to children because to train coordination ability and their leg strength.
Wow,great post, These things are so much more technologically advanced than when I was a kid. In my opinion, if kids can be familiar with trampolines, they will learn how to keep safe with them.
A trampoline is a big family purchase. So choosing the best one for you and your family is of utmost importance.
I would also say people should consider how much would it cost to maintain the trampoline. Although they are quite durable, they still require some repairs and overall maintenance. Especially if you get a used one, they tend to break quicker.
Wow !
Great Blog for beginners, especially for first buyer. I believe that the most important thing here is to consider while buying a trampoline is to choose a top branded trampoline if someone is not aware of it.
(Trampoline Expert)