As the continued growth of indoor trampoline parks in Wisconsin seems to indicate, children love jumping on trampolines. The challenge is this: thousands of people are getting hurt on trampolines. According to the Cleveland Clinic, from 2002 – 2011 more than 1 million trips to the ER were due to trampoline accidents; in 2009, nearly 100,000 trampoline-related injuries occurred among children. The American Academy of Pediatricians (AAP) notes that common trampoline injuries include:
- Broken bones
- Sprained or strained muscles
- Concussions
- Head and neck injuries
- Bruises, scrapes and cuts
In fact, the AAP “recommends that mini and full-sized trampolines never be used at home.” If you do own a trampoline, the AAP recommends the following safety precautions:
- Set the trampoline on level ground
- Cover the springs with a trampoline pad
- Install a safety net around the perimeter of the trampoline
- Check the trampoline frequently for damaged parts and replace as needed
It’s also important to set rules for its use:
- Only one person allowed to jump at a time (most injuries occur when more than one person is on the trampoline according to AAP)
- No flips or somersaults
- Keep the safety net zipped closed when on the trampoline
- Adults must be present
As an owner of a trampoline, it’s important you have proper insurance coverage. Some home insurance policies allow you to add trampoline coverage — some specifically exclude coverage for trampoline injuries. If your policy does not include trampoline coverage, consult your insurance agent to asking about adding umbrella liability coverage to protect against injuries and accidents that occur on your property. Children who live in the home where a trampoline is used cannot usually file a claim against their parents’ homeowners insurance, but neighbor and visiting kids can. Without insurance coverage, you may be personally responsible for the injuries.
