Are Trampolines Safe for Kids?

The Facts

• Trampoline injuries are on the rise. In 2004, approximately 93,000 children under the age of 14 required emergency-room treatment for injuries related to trampoline use, according to an article on the Safe Kids USA website (see References). This is up from 83,400 injuries in 1996. Safe Kids USA also reports that more than 90 percent of these injuries occurred in private homes and yards. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission states that six children under 15 have died from trampoline accidents since 1990 (see References).

Risks

• Many trampoline accidents result in broken bones or muscle injuries. Your child could also suffer from cuts, fractures or bruises. These heal easily, but your child risks much more serious damage by using a trampoline. A fall that causes spinal injuries could result in paralysis.

Causes

• Colliding with another person accounts for more than 50 percent of trampoline injuries, according to the CPSC. Making awkward landings, jumping off, falling off, or landing directly on the steel frame or springs could also send your child to the emergency room. Attempting complicated maneuvers, such as somersaults, can lead to head and neck injuries.

Supervised Programs

• The American Academy of Pediatrics considers trampolines unsafe for home and school use. According to the AAP, your child should only use a trampoline under close supervision by a trained professional, unless she is under 6 years old. Children 5 years old and under should not use a trampoline, even with supervision. Make sure your child's supervised program uses trained spotters, safety harnesses and a sturdy pad that completely covers the springs and frame. The safest programs reduce the chance of injury further by routinely inspecting equipment for damage and by placing the trampoline in a pit, bringing it nearer to ground level.

Home Safety

• If you do have a trampoline in your yard, keep ladders away from it. Your toddler or preschooler could use a ladder to climb onto the trampoline if left unsupervised. Also place the trampoline in a clear area of the yard, far from trees, sheds or play areas to reduce the chance of injuries. Put an enclosure around the trampoline to prevent falls. Make sure all springs and the steel frame are covered by a safety pad, and never allow more than one person at a time on the trampoline.