Top Safety Tips To Remember When Renting Out A Backyard with a Trampoline
Backyard with a Trampoline
Renting out your backyard space is already a great way to make extra income on the side. One way that you can make your backyard look more appealing, especially to families and large gatherings of people with children, is having access to a trampoline in your backyard.
There’s just something about a trampoline that brings out the inner child in everyone across all age groups. Kids bounce around on trampolines in sheer delight, while teenagers and adults can use it to indulge in working out.
In any case, a trampoline can truly be the highlight of any backyard experience…but only if it’s done safely. It’s no secret that while trampolines can be a major draw, they also have the potential to cause serious injuries if not managed properly.
Thankfully, we’re here to help make sure that this never happens to you or to anyone who rents out your backyard space. In this article, we’ll ensure you understand the inherent risks that come with having a trampoline, and then we’ll cover the proper setup and safety protocols to ensure that your trampoline is equally as safe as it is fun for guests.
The Risks That Are Involved with Trampolines
Trampolines are a blast, but they also come with a serious set of risks that you should never underestimate. The first step in ensuring the safety of your trampolines is being aware of these riss in the first place. The most common injuries that occur on trampolines are:
- Sprains and Strains
These are the most frequent types of injuries that can occur on trampolines. They are often caused by awkward landings; for instance, someone might twist an ankle or wrench a knee when their foot catches on the trampoline’s surface or when they land unevenly.
- Fractures and Broken Bones
More serious injuries such as fractures can occur too, particularly when people collide with each other or land improperly. For example, if a guest tries to break a fall with their arm, they might end up with a broken wrist.
- Head and Neck Injuries
These are among the most dangerous injuries that can happen with trampolines. A failed flip or awkward landing can result in head trauma or neck injuries, which can range from anything from minor concussions to more severe spinal injuries. These types of injuries can have long-lasting effects and are particularly risky because they can occur in an instant, often with little warning.
- Cuts and Bruises
Exposed springs, frayed netting, or sharp edges can easily cause these types of injuries, which, while likely minor, can still spoil the fun for your guests!
What is The Cause of These Injuries?
Whenever someone is injured on a trampoline, it’s usually due to one of the following reasons:
- Collision Risks
One of the most common scenarios leading to injury is when multiple people use the trampoline at the same time. In fact, collisions are almost inevitable when jumpers of different sizes and weights are on the trampoline together.
- Falling Off the Trampoline
Falling off the trampoline is another major risk, so long as the trampoline isn’t equipped with adequate safety nets.
- Structural Failure
Over time, gradual wear and tear can cause springs to loosen, frames to weaken, or the mat to develop tears. If any part of the trampoline gives way during use, the result can be catastrophic.
- Weather-Related Hazards
Wet or slippery conditions can make the mat of a trampoline extremely. Strong winds can even lift a trampoline off the ground, especially if it isn’t properly secured.
To be clear, none of the above is to dissuade you from setting up a trampoline in your backyard.
It’s just to make sure that you are aware of the potential risks that can come with having a trampoline on your
For the remainder of this article, we’ll discuss actions you can take to mitigate the chances of any of those above injuries from ever happening.
That starts with…
Proper Trampoline Setup
The most important safety precaution you can take with a trampoline is to set it up properly. Yes, it really is that simple!
Having a well-placed and well-maintained trampoline is the number one way you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and therefore make it a fun and safe addition to your backyard rental.
Choosing the Right Location
The ideal location for trampoline should meet the following requirements:
- Level Ground
Ensure that the ground where you place the trampoline is completely level. If your backyard isn’t perfectly level, you’ll need to utilize leveling tools or even grade the area to create a flat surface.
- No Obstacles
The trampoline should be positioned well away from any hazards such as trees, fences, or walls. Additionally, keeping the trampoline away from hard surfaces like concrete or gravel. Instead grass or a soft, cushioned surface is ideal in case someone falls off.
- Safe Clearance
Don’t forget to look up! Make sure there are no low-hanging branches, wires, or other overhead obstacles that could interfere with someone’s jump. As a golden rule, aim for a minimum of twenty-four feet of overhead clearance.
Setting up The Trampoline
You can treat the following as a checklist to ensure that your trampoline is set up and maintained safely:
- Make sure you have a net that surrounds the entire trampoline. This net should be securely attached to the frame and stand tall enough to catch anyone who might lose their balance and fall toward the edge.
- Exposed metal parts, like the frame and springs, are common culprits in causing injuries. To mitigate this risk, cover these areas with thick padding.
- Inspect the mat regularly. Look for any rips, frayed edges, or holes that could cause someone to trip or fall through. The mat should be taut and properly tensioned, providing a firm, even surface for jumping.
- Trampolines should be securely anchored to the ground using a trampoline anchor kit, which typically includes stakes and straps designed to keep the trampoline in place. Over time, anchors can become loose, so check them each time before you rent out your backyard to a new party.
Setting up a trampoline correctly is the most important thing you can do to ensure that your trampoline is used safely. The second most important thing is…
Establishing Clear Rules and Educating Guests on Safety Measures
Communicate the rules with your guests and renters about how to use the trampoline safely.
Only you can decide what the rules are, since it’s your property, but here are some ideas that you may want to think about:
- Limit the number of people who are allowed to jump on the trampoline at a time. A good idea is simply to refer to the recommendation by the manufacturer of your trampoline on the packaging.
- Set age and weight limits. Again, referring to the recommendations of your trampoline’s manufacturer is probably the best idea.
- Make sure that younger children are supervised.
- Be strict about what movements are allowed. Although flips, somersaults, and other stunts can be tempting, they are also the most common causes of serious injuries that we were talking about above, like head, neck, and spinal trauma. Make it clear that flips and other acrobatic moves are not allowed unless supervised by someone who is experienced in trampoline gymnastics.
- Have time limits for trampoline use, especially during peak rental times. This not only helps manage the flow of guests but also reduces fatigue-related injuries that can occur after using a trampoline for an extended period.
The rules you set should be clearly written down on safety signs with a large print that is within easy view of the trampoline. Additionally, you can provide guests with written safety guidelines as part of their welcome package or rental agreement.
Conclusion
Renting out your backyard with a trampoline can be a fantastic way to offer guests a fun. And memorable experience, but as always, safety should always be your top priority. Understand the risks involved, set up your trampoline correctly and establish clear rules for your guests to follow.
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