There’s an old episode of The Simpsons where Homer Simpson sees an ad for a used trampoline and gets so excited he can’t even say the word.
“Tramampoline! Trambapoline!”
The whole thing ends the way all Homer’s schemes do – badly – but we understand his enthusiasm.
Trampolines are a great addition to your backyard, especially as your children outgrow swing sets. They can offer hours of enjoyment for you and your children. Here’s a primer on the right way – and the safe way—to buy a trampoline.
Choosing A Trampoline
When you set out to make this purchase, focus on two things: trampoline size, and trampoline safety.
Trampolines typically come in a few different shapes: round, oval, rectangular and square. And each of these trampolines usually come in different sizes. The size you choose should depend on the size of your yard. A 7-foot or 8-foot trampoline would work for smaller yards with less space. With larger yards, you can get away with a larger trampoline. There are also spring-free options to consider as well as accessories to help keep everyone safe.
Once you’ve bought your trampoline, it’s important to follow some safety rules:
- Use safety pads and nets. Your trampoline should feature an enclosure – in other words, a net surrounding the trampoline. The frame, springs and landing surfaces should have shock-absorbing pads.
- Be sure to check your trampoline for tears in the fabric, deterioration and detachment on regular basis. Bad welds in the frame can cause cuts, so check the frame as well.
- Your trampoline should be at ground level, and placed a safe distance from trees, clotheslines buildings and other hazards. You should have a clearance of 17 feet above the trampoline.
- You should create a fall zone of at least eight feet around the outside of the trampoline. Keep this area clear. Make sure the trampoline is on soft, energy-absorbing ground: a soft, springy lawn, or sand, bark or other cushioning materials. Never put the trampoline on asphalt, concrete or other hard surfaces without having a safety net or crash mats in place.
- Have your children remove any jewelry or take any sharp objects from their pockets before using the trampoline. It’s a good idea.
- Make sure your trampoline is free of moisture before using it. Wipe it down after rain or snow storms. A wet mat can cause users to slip and injure themselves.
- One child at a time. When two people are jumping, they throw off each other’s timing. You get the other person’s momentum, which can send you higher in the air.
- If you can’t avoid a situation where more than one kid uses the trampoline, you should at least make sure they’re kids of roughly equal height and weight.
- Don’t allow children to perform somersaults or other potentially dangerous maneuvers while on the trampoline, unless they’re wearing protective gear like a harness, and have gotten some sort of expert instruction.
- Trampolines are not recommended for children younger than 6 years old.
- Don’t let kids jump off the trampoline. They should climb off. If they use a ladder to climb up and down, make sure you put the ladder away when the trampoline isn’t in use.
We want your kids to enjoy your trampoline in a way that’s both fun and safe. Visit Swingset & Toy Warehouse – either online or at one of our locations -- to see our complete line of trampolines from SpringFree, AlleyOOP and Jump Sport.
Who knows? You might find something that can delight not only your children, but your inner child as well. Take a leap and find out.
