Bounce Away Trampoline Liabilities

Trampolines are a popular form of recreation – popping in backyards around the country. Though trampolines may be fun, they are also a potential liability for homeowners because of the health and safety concerns of not using a trampoline properly. To minimize your risks and maximize your fun, consider the following recommendations.

Health and Safety Risks

While made for enjoyment, trampolines also pose health and safety risks. From sprained ankles to life-threatening fractures, most injuries result from improper use and/or inadequate adult supervision. Injuries are typically caused by the following:

• Attempting tricks and flips
• Colliding or landing on another jumper
• Being pushed off or falling off a trampoline
• Landing awkwardly while jumping
• Falling onto the springs or frame instead of the bouncy center
• Jumping, instead of climbing off
• Jumping onto a trampoline from a higher elevation

Trampolines are considered attractive nuisances – items that are attractive and enticing to children. If kids are walking by your home and spot the trampoline in your backyard, they may be enticed to head on back and start jumping. In the event that they suffer an injury on your property, you are ultimately liable.
To protect yourself, consider fencing in your yard and never allow unsupervised individuals to jump when you are not present.

Protecting Your Personal Property

Since using a trampoline can pose serious harm, practice the following precautions:

• Always supervise all users on the trampoline, regardless of their ages or experience levels.
• Only allow one person on at a time.
• Do not allow children under the age of six to use a trampoline.
• Do not place a ladder near a trampoline because it welcomes younger children to climb up and start jumping.
• Do not allow jumpers to do somersaults or flips, as they could land on their necks or heads incorrectly.
• Do not allow jumpers to use the trampoline as a way to jump onto other objects.
• Securely attach safety padding to cover the hooks, springs and frame. Make sure the padding is a different color than the trampoline bed so jumpers can differentiate between the two areas.
• Setup the trampoline on level ground away from trees and other obstacles.
• Install safety netting around a trampoline to provide fall protection.
• Inspect the trampoline before each use to make sure that the springs are secure and that the bed does not have any tears or holes.

To learn more about your homeowner liabilities and ways to prevent losses, contact us today.