It's Peak Season for Trampoline Troubles

Trampolines have become the must-have summer accessory to many yards of families with children. But using trampolines, even when protected by a net to stop people from falling off, can still be risky. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents do not purchase trampolines and do not allow their children to jump on trampolines at someone else's home. Safety features such as padding or enclosed netting are insufficient to reduce the risk of injury. Many children still suffer injuries even under the supervision of a parent or adult.

According to a report by Time Magazine, the majority of trampoline injuries, 75% occur when more than one person is jumping on the trampoline at a time. Usually the youngest and smallest jumpers are at the highest risk for getting hurt; fractures and dislocations account for 48% of injuries in kids under 5. Overall, fractures and sprains make up the bulk of the harms in any age group, while falls from the apparatus, which can be catastrophic, cause 27% to 39% of all injuries. The statement notes that failed attempts at somersaults and flips frequently cause cervical spine injuries, resulting in permanent and devastating consequences.

Not only is a trampoline a dangerous form of child recreation, it is also a nightmare for insurance coverage. An important issue for homeowners to determine is whether their homeowner’s insurance covers them in the event that a person is injured while using a trampoline on their property. Because of the potential injuries and long term conditions that can be caused while using a trampoline, homeowners may be liable for any injuries that may occur. Although 40% of all trampoline injuries are to the leg and foot areas, some injuries such as paralysis have occurred and the resulting lifelong condition has caused the medical cost for treatment of these injuries and the log term care assistance to go far above the policy limits set by most homeowners insurance companies.

If you have a home with a trampoline and choose to allow your children to use it, there are some options to make trampoline usage safer. A trampoline safety alert from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, or CPSC, recommends several steps to reduce the risk of serious injuries. First, only one person at a time should jump on the trampoline. Do not allow jumpers to attempt somersaults. Always keep the trampoline springs covered with padding, and do not place the trampoline too close to trees or other structures. Only allow children 6 and older to jump on a full-sized trampoline, and supervise all children on trampolines. Place an enclosure around the trampoline to prevent falls to the ground, and do not place a ladder near the trampoline because small children can potentially climb the ladder and jump unassisted. The American Academy of Pediatrics warns parents and guardians to make sure their children's schools do not have trampolines and to inspect home trampolines regularly for tears, rust and detached springs or pads.

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