Central Florida doctors urge caution after teen dies at Oviedo trampoline park

19-year-old worker dies while jumping on trampoline at Boing!

Author: Kala Ram

OVIEDO, Fla. –
Trampoline parks are growing in popularity, but doctors are warning parents that they aren’t as safe as you think.

Local 6 has learned a 19-year-old employee at Boing! trampoline park in Oviedo died after he went to work early to jump on the trampolines.

Seminole County Sheriff’s deputies said Jorge Jimenez was doing flips when he landed on his head.

Michael Canales, director of Boing!, wouldn’t talk about Jimenez’s death, but says safety is their top priority.

“Like all dynamic activities, there is a risk in jumping,” Canales said. “We are confident that when the rules are followed, and that given the constant oversight and vigilance by our trained jump guards, Boing! Jump Center is a safe and enjoyable activity.”

Canales says a waiver must be signed before bouncing, making parents aware of any risk. Among the rules clearly stated, participants must agree to removing glasses, hard/sharp objects, belts, buckles and all jewelry.

The rules also state there is no double jumping, wrestling, running, tackling or playing tag in the facility.

Dr, Elizabeth Davis practices pediatric sports medicine at Arnold Palmer Hospital. She is passionate about how dangerous trampolines can be after treating kids for injuries all summer long.

She says the most common injuries are arm and leg fractures, but the most catastrophic is a head injury. Davis said she understands the draw of the trampolines, but younger children may not be able to handle the power of the trampoline.

“Especially younger children, they don’t have the body control or sense,” Davis said.