Would You Risk Your Child’s Health and Your Financial Future on a Toy?

Now that summer is here, it is time to remind everyone of an important topic: trampoline accidents.

Trampolines, whether at an indoor park or in the backyard, are popular among children and teens, even some adults. Though trampolines may be fun, they can cause serious and permanent injuries, even when the trampoline has a net and padding and kids are supervised. In fact, the AmericanAcademy of Pediatrics (AAP) believes that no amount of parental supervision is enough to eliminate the potential for serious injury and has recommended against backyard trampolines since 1999. Yet, that doesn't stop parents from purchasing them.

Most people think trampoline injuries usually occur by falling off the trampoline, but that is far from the truth. Two thirds of trampoline injuries occur on the trampoline such as landing wrong or colliding with others jumping.

According to the AAP, the following are common injuries:

• Broken bones (sometimes needing surgery)
• Dislocations and muscle damage
• Concussions and other head injuries
• Sprains/strains
• Bruises, scrapes, and cuts
• Neck and spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries

Some injuries have resulted in permanent paralysis, even death.

Then, there is the liability issue. Many homeowner insurance policies either prohibit them or have a clear exclusion for trampoline injuries. If someone else's child is injured on your trampoline, you could be on the hook for any medical bills. Worse still, if a child climbs your fence while you're away and gets hurt, you may also be liable, even though the child was trespassing at the time.

If that isn't enough to persuade you, and a trampoline is part of your child’s backyard fun, the CPSC has this advice for parents and homeowners:

• Position the trampoline on a clear, flat surface. Never place it on concrete or other hard surfaces. Do not place it close to buildings, playground equipment, swimming pools, roadways, power lines, or trees. 
• Make sure the springs, hooks, supporting bars, and frame are securely padded.
• Periodically check the trampoline for wear. If protective padding, the net enclosure, or any other parts are damaged, repair or replace before anyone is allowed to use the trampoline.
• Provide adult supervision at all times.
• Allow only one person to use a trampoline at one time.
• Do not attempt or allow somersaults.
• Do not allow anyone to jump off the trampoline.
• Enclose the trampoline in a gated area so children don’t have access when unsupervised.
• Never use a trampoline at night.
• Do not allow a child under six years of age to use a full sized trampoline.

Additionally, parents should check their homeowner's policy. Make sure you have enough liability insurance and obtain a rider to cover trampoline-related injuries if not included in the basic policy.

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