Backyard trampoline and inflatable play structure safety
Backyard trampolines and inflatable play structures (bouncy castles, bounce houses) are popular in Canada. However, using these products can lead to serious injuries. Learn about the risks associated with these products and steps for safer use.
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Backyard trampoline safety
Trampoline-related injuries
The Canadian Paediatric Society and Parachute Canada recommend against the use of recreational trampolines at home because of the potential for serious injury. Trampoline-related injuries can range in severity from minor to life changing. Possible injuries include:
- cuts and bruises
- dislocations and sprains
- broken bones
- back and neck injuries
- head injuries
- permanent disability and death
Trampoline-related injuries can happen from:
- landing the wrong way
- attempting flips and somersaults
- coming into contact with the springs or frame
- falling, jumping or being pushed off the trampoline
- jumpers colliding when more than one person is on the trampoline
Somersaults and flips can cause permanent spine injuries. Do not try these on a trampoline at home or in another recreational setting.
Safety tips for trampolines
If you choose to use a trampoline, be aware of the safety risks and take steps for safer use. Before setting up your trampoline, read the manufacturer’s instructions and follow all guidelines for safe set up and use.
Location and set up
- Set up the trampoline on flat, level ground.
- Choose a location that’s safely away from potential hazards like trees, play structures, buildings, fences, overhead powerlines and bodies of water.
- Allow at least 2 metres of clearance around the sides and 8 metres of overhead space.
- Use a trampoline safety net to help reduce the risk of injuries from falls off the trampoline.
Trampoline safety nets are designed to prevent jumpers from falling off the trampoline and hitting the ground. However, most trampoline injuries happen on the trampoline mat during jumping. While nets can reduce the risk of certain types of accidents, they don’t prevent most trampoline-related injuries.
Maintenance
- Before each use check that the:
- frame is undamaged
- springs are securely attached
- leg braces are locked and secure
- padding is securely fastened and intact
- jumping surface is free of holes, tears and wear
- Replace any worn or damaged parts immediately.
Supervision and safer use
- Make sure there is active adult supervision during use.
- Don’t allow children under six years of age to use a trampoline.
- Make sure only one person jumps at a time.
- Keep toys and other objects off the trampoline and make sure the ground underneath is clear of any objects.
- Don’t jump onto a trampoline from a higher place or use it as a springboard to jump onto something else.
- If using a trampoline with springs, make sure that it has shock-absorbing pads that completely cover the springs, hooks and frame.
Inflatable play structure safety
Inflatable play structures-related injuries
Like trampolines, inflatable play structures come with the risk of injuries, which can range in severity and can include:
- bruises
- sprains
- broken bones
- head injuries
- suffocation
Injuries from inflatable play structures can happen from:
- bumping or falling into others in the structure, especially if exceeding the recommended number of users
- the structure tipping over or getting lifted by the wind due to improper anchoring or bad weather conditions
- the structure collapsing
- falling off the structure
Safety tips for inflatable play structures
Before setting up your inflatable play structure, read the manufacturer’s instructions and follow all guidelines for safe set up and use.
Location
- Choose a location that’s safely away from potential hazards like trees, play structures, buildings, fences, overhead powerlines and bodies of water.
- Allow at least 2 metres of clearance on all sides of the inflatable play structure.
Surface
- Set up the inflatable play structure on level ground on a soft surface, like grass. Don’t set it up on concrete, asphalt, packed earth or any hard surface because of the risk of fall-related injuries.
- Remove all rocks, sticks and sharp objects under or near the inflatable play structure.
Anchoring
- Securely anchor it to the ground so that it doesn’t move, tip over or lift into the air.
- Check that it’s stable and won’t shift or move when in use.
Power source
- Use the blower that came with the product or a replacement specified by the manufacturer.
- Do not use an extension cord when plugging in the inflatable play structure.
Maintenance
- Check for leaks and damages to the cord, plug and pump regularly. Do not use the product if damaged.
- If using an inflatable water slide, allow to fully dry before putting it away.
Using inflatable play structures indoors is not recommended. Low clearance above and around the play structure as well as challenges anchoring the structure to the ground increase the risk of injury.
Supervision and safer use
- Follow all manufacturer’s recommendations for the number of persons allowed at one time, height and size restrictions and age guidelines.
- Make sure there is always active adult supervision during use.
- Don’t use inflatable play structures in windy or rainy conditions.
- Don’t let children:
- do flips or somersaults in the structure
- climb on the walls of the structure
- climb the ladder at the same time as another child
Stay informed
Before buying, check for product recalls at Canada.ca/recalls.
You can also report an incident involving a trampoline or other consumer product at Canada.ca/report-a-product.