When we think about trampolines, we usually think of people using them in spring or summer.
But what about the winter, when you and your family are less likely to spend time outside? Read on to learn more about trampoline care during the cold weather months.
If you have an all-weather, rust-proof trampoline and live in a place that sees a lot of snow in the winter, be sure to clear your trampoline of snow on a regular basis. Use a soft bristle broom or brush, working from the center of the matt and pulling the snow toward you.
Don’t use tools like a shovel, as their hard edges can damage the mat or the net surrounding your trampoline. As our partners at Springfree put it, you can still use a trampoline during the winter. Many of their customers enjoy using them to jump in the snow.
If you won’t be using your trampoline during the winter, install a trampoline cover, or take your trampoline apart and store it for the winter.
And no matter the season, you should remember these tips for trampoline care and safety:
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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.
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Be sure to check your trampoline for tears in the fabric, deterioration and detachment on a regular basis. Bad welds in the frame can cause cuts, so check the frame as well.
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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.
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You should create a fall zone of at least eight feet around the outside of the trampoline. Keep this area clear. Keep the trampoline on soft, energy-absorbing ground: a soft, springy lawn, or sand, bark or other cushioning materials. Never position the trampoline on concrete, asphalt or any other hard surface without first putting up a safety net or crash mats.
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Have your children remove any jewelry or take any sharp objects from their pockets before using the trampoline. It’s a good idea.
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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.
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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.
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If you can’t avoid a situation where more than one kid using the trampoline, you should at least make sure they are kids of roughly equal height and weight.
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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.
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Trampolines are not recommended for use for children younger than 6.
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Don’t allow your children or their friends to jump off the trampoline. (except maybe into a big pile of snow). Have them climb off instead, and if they use a ladder to climb up and down, make sure you put the ladder away when the trampoline isn’t in use.
At Swingset & Toy Warehouse, we want you and your children to enjoy your trampoline all year long if possible.
Visit us online or at one of our four locations -- to see our complete line of trampolines from SpringFree, AlleyOOP and Jump Sport. We’re confident you’ll find something you’ll enjoy, no matter the season.
