As their popularity rises, so do the number of trampoline injuries.
By Diane Griffith

Trampolines may be lots of fun and a great way to exercise, but they can also be hazardous to kids.

The American Academy of Pediatrics says trampolines are not meant to be used as play equipment. Because injury rates for kids are so high, they advise against having trampolines at schools, on outdoor playgrounds and in your own backyard.

What can happen
The most recent report from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) showed that in one year, more than 211,000 children were injured on trampolines. Serious injuries have involved all parts of the body, most commonly the arms, legs, neck, face and head.

The most serious trampoline injuries are to the head and neck. Accidents happen when kids attempt flips and other gymnastic moves. Each year, there are some children paralyzed for life because of such injuries. The CPSC recommends that no child under the age of 6 use a full-size trampoline. The rate of injury is highest in children in this age group.

Younger children are at the greatest risk for fractures. Older kids more often suffer strains and sprains. Cervical spine injuries – mostly from falling off the trampoline – are rare, but can be fatal.

 

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How injuries occur
Three out of four trampoline injuries happen when more than one person is jumping at once. Sometimes, the two bouncers collide. The momentum of one jumper can also make another jumper lose control and land improperly. The person who weighs less is five times more likely to be injured than the heavier person.

Injuries can also occur when jumpers fall off the trampoline, try to jump off, fall on the springs or frame of the trampoline, or attempt stunts.

When a trampoline is placed too close to trees, fences and other objects, jumpers can strike hard surfaces if they fall. Equipment is not always well maintained. It may tear, rust or come apart. This can lead to serious injury.

Ladders should never be kept next to trampolines because they allow access to young children. Young children should always be supervised when near trampolines.

Prevention
Adult supervision and the placement of spotters around the net can help reduce trampoline injuries. So can safety enclosures – high nets that surround the trampoline. Digging a pit to place the jumping surface at ground level may also help in some cases.

These methods may lower the risk of injury, but none of them are foolproof. Supervision is not a failsafe method – half of all trampoline accidents occur when children are being watched by an adult. Installing ground-level trampolines and safety nets may help reduce the number of fall-off injuries, but won’t prevent other types of accidents.

If you’re thinking of buying a trampoline, weigh the pros and cons carefully. Following strict safety rules can cut down on the risks, but the only sure way to avoid trampoline accidents in your backyard is to not own one.