Using a trampoline can be a fun activity for children, but there is no denying they are dangerous. Trampoline safety rules must be strictly followed to minimize the risk of sprains, fractures, and other injuries.
Read on to know more about trampoline safety rules and what to do after a trampoline injury.
Are Trampolines Too Dangerous For Kids?
Playing on a trampoline can be a good exercise for children. However, the use of this equipment that only consists of strong fabric sheets connected by springs can cause serious injuries.
Backyard trampolines became more popular than ever, mainly because of the strict stay at home guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Many children release their energy by jumping and rolling around on trampolines. While it is a good way to encourage motor development and physical activity, this activity also poses a risk to a child’s safety.
In Australia, the average number of trampoline-related injuries reaches over 3,000 people every year, making it one of the most product-related injuries to Australian children.
At least eight children suffer from trampoline injury every day, with 75% of these reported cases happening at home. The smallest children are at the greatest risk of these injuries, especially those five years and below.
Common trampoline injuries range from muscles sprains, strains, bruising to broken bones, concussions, and even spinal cord injuries resulting in paralysis.
Small children often get hurt by unsafe practices, including being struck by another jumper, landing incorrectly on the mat, attempting to complete stunts or falling off the trampoline.
5 Safety Tips For Using Trampolines
Follow these simple rules to keep everyone safe while having fun at the trampoline.
Use Trampoline Safety Net
Install a trampoline enclosure consisting of a special net designed to cover the equipment’s frame, springs, and surrounding landing surfaces with protective pads.
Perform regular inspection of the trampoline for possible tears, detachments, and deterioration.
Limit Trampoline Activity
Never allow a child below six years old to use a trampoline, and do not allow more than one person on the equipment at the same time.
Discourage the little ones from doing flying somersaults and other potentially risky moves without adult supervision. Follow safety instructions from the manual and use protective equipment such as a harness.
Set Up The Trampoline At Ground Level
Falling from height or higher surfaces increases the risk of injury. Ensure the ground is even when setting up the equipment, maintaining a safe distance from trees and other hazards.
Always Have Adult Supervision
Never allowed unsupervised jumping. If there is a trampoline ladder attached to the frames, always remove it after use to avoid unintentional injuries.
Keep in mind that trampoline injuries can still happen despite adult supervision. Parents, guardians, and other adults should actively enforce safety rules and know-how to provide first aid.
Forbid Somersaulting And Flips
Dangerous tricks only increase the risk of head, neck, and spinal injuries, which are often severe and can lead to disability or death.
First Aid For Trampoline Safety
With all the running and jumping on the trampolines, there comes the possibility of cuts, scrapes, head, back, and spinal injuries.
For Cuts And Scrapes
For injuries that appear to be mild such as minor cuts and scrapes, use a first aid kit to treat and cover the wound.
For Head And Neck Injuries
Lots of children jumping up and down the trampoline will result in a possibility of bumping heads.
Do not move the child for suspected neck, back or head injuries and call triple zero (000) immediately.
Let the child rest and apply something cold to the injury, such as an ice pack or cold compress. If there are other bystanders in the area, ask them to look for the child while you seek further help.
For Broken Bones
Limbs flying freely in the air while playing on trampolines could lead to broken bones.
After an awkward fall, notice if the child is in pain or if there is any bruising or swelling. The limbs may also bend, out of shape or at an unusual angle.
For first aid treatment, support the injury with a cushion or clothing to keep it in a still position. Go to the emergency room or call 000 if the symptoms become worse.
For Sprains And Strains
It can be challenging to differentiate sprains and strains from broken bones. If you have concerns, get medical advice.
The common signs of sprains and strains are pain, swelling, and bruising around the joints or muscles. For injuries around the joints, the child might experience difficulty moving a limb.
Let the child rest in a comfortable position and apply an ice pack or cold compress to the injury for up to ten minutes. If there is no improvement in the symptoms, seek medical help.
Get Trained
Even the most careful kids can suffer accidents when jumping and playing on trampolines. Having a good understanding of the ins and out of first aid allows them to play with confidence, knowing that you have the skills to keep them safe.
Learn how to handle your kid’s injuries through First Aid training. For more information, reach us at 08 7120 2570 or visit our course page.