Keeping Kids Safe on Trampolines

As we jump into summer, many parents are ready to let their kids hop back onto a staple summer toy: trampolines. While trampolines can be a fun way for kids to get their hearts pumping and play outside with their friends, the bouncing comes with the risk of serious injuries. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that mini and full-sized trampolines not be used at home, in routine gym classes, or on playgrounds.

So, if you do consider letting you your child jump on a trampoline, it's crucial to have safety guidelines in place and follow them at all times. 

A Peek at the Facts

Between 2002 and 2011, the Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics estimated that there were more than 1 million emergency department visits for trampoline-related injuries across the U.S. Many children had broken their arms, legs, or back bones from a bad jump or fall. And not surprisingly, as trampolines became more popular over the past decade, the number of injuries has been increasing. 

Members of the Trauma and Acute Care Surgery team at Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health recently published a study on trampoline injuries in Pennsylvania. Here is what we found:

• Arm and leg sprains and breaks were the most common injury in PA.
• Almost 15% of patients had spine or head injuries.

By carefully following some safety precautions trampoline related-injuries can be prevented. Here are a few tips that could help keep your kids safe this summer.

6 Trampoline Safety Tips

• Limit trampoline activity to children 11 years of age and older. Almost half of trampoline injuries occur in children 10 years of age or younger. 
• Allow only one person on the trampoline at a time. 
• Do not flip or tumble while jumping on a trampoline. Three-quarters of trampoline injures occur when children are flipping.
• Use safety nets and pads and make sure they are positioned correctly. 
• Only allow children to jump when a trampoline is completely dry. 
• Supervise children at all times when a trampoline is in use.

Note: Research intern Alexis Campbell collaborated with Dr. Perea on this article.