Trampolines for kids – is there a ‘safest trampoline’ really?
Now that the weather is finally warm and we are heading outdoors, trampolines are being assembled across Canada much to many physicians’ chagrin.
Yes they can be dangerous, but trampolines can be a healthy activity as long as parents take special precautions.
For me it’s a delicate balance – my desire that all children should be active and get the recommended 60 min of activity a day, with the safety (or lack there-of) of trampolines. For more on health habits for your kids, click here.
Injuries
I am biased of course – I see trampoline injuries in the emergency department many times each summer. But the truth is, it isn’t just my bias. Many children do sustain fractures, dislocations, head injuries and lacerations each year. Most emergency departments in Canada see 50-100 trampoline injuries a year, some with serious consequences requiring admission and surgery.
For more on cuts and scrapes, click here.
Who is most likely to get hurt?
According to the Canada Safety Council, children 5-14 years of age are most likely to injure themselves on a trampoline. Most injuries are from landing improperly after a jump or flip, jumping into another child or falling off the apparatus. Most accidents take place when there is no parental supervision.
How to stay safe
Yes they can be dangerous, but trampolines can be a healthy activity as long as parents take special precautions.
- Make sure equipment is safe. Your trampoline should meet ASTM requirements. Though not regulated by Canada per se, this is the best we have
- Keep the trampoline far clear of trees and swimming pools
- Check for damage every day! Check the hooks, springs, bed and frames to ensure no wear and tear.
- The Canada Safety Council recommends only children over age six years use a trampoline. There are much smaller toddler trampolines available for small children
- ALWAYS SUPERVISE your children while on the trampoline
- One child at a time
- No flips – I know, your child will be mad
- No somersaults – same here, sorry
- Don’t jump off the trampoline
- Keep a mesh enclosure on the trampoline to avoid falling or jumping out
- Don’t keep a ladder against the trampoline, so as not to attract young children when no one is watching
Always remember sun protection when outdoors – this great article discusses Sun Safety for Kids.
Dina is a wife, mother of 4, and adrenaline junky. She loves to share children’s health information from her professional and personal experience. More About Dr Dina.
