Trampolines -- Fun or Risky Business?

In the late 19th century, according to circus lore, a trapeze artist named Du Trampolin developed the first makeshift trampoline by using the trapeze safety net as a propulsion and landing device. However, the modern trampoline as we know it today didn't arrive in America until Iowan George Nissen invented it in 1936. Since that time, over the course of its nearly 70-year history, the trampoline has been useful in several areas. Gymnasts, astronauts, and even the U.S. Navy Flight School all regularly use the trampoline as a training device. Others, such as physical education instructors and fitness experts, use the trampoline as part of an overall fitness program, pointing out that trampoline exercising provides cardiovascular benefits, is low impact on the body's joints, and helps to build muscle in the lower extremities. Trampolines are even beginning to show up in the sports world as trampoline gymnastics made its Olympic debut at the 2000 Summer Games.

Not surprisingly, trampoline sales have soared. In 1998, an estimated 640,000 trampolines were sold-a 350% increase from the estimated 140,000 sold in 1989. As sales have soared, so have the number of trampoline-related injuries. From 1991 to 2000, the number of emergency room cases from trampoline accidents tripled. Of the 250,000 annual accidents requiring medical treatment, 100,000 end up in the ER and most involve children 14 or younger. Consequently, the American Academy of Pediatrics, along with several other health and safety groups, condemns all trampolines, regardless of safety precautions taken.

Because of the increase in the number of trampoline injuries and the potential for extremely large claims, Central does not have a program to insure risks with trampolines.

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	Trampoline Safety Tips
	Trampoline Safety Standards
	Main Causes of Trampoline Injury
	Trampoline Links

Just The Facts

1. Trampoline injuries almost tripled from 1991 to 1999.
2. Nearly two-thirds of those injured were children aged 6 to 14.
3. Since 1990, there have been 11 trampoline related deaths.
4. In 1999 there were over 100,000 incidents of hospital room emergency treatment for trampoline injuries.
5. An estimated 640,000 trampolines were sold in 1998, more than a 350% increase in sales from an estimated 140,000 sold in 1989.
6. An estimated 3 million trampolines are in use today.
7. Trampoline gymnastics was a summer Olympics event in 2000.
8. Children can bounce up to 30 feet on a trampoline.
9. 40% of all injuries are to the leg/foot area.
10. 4% of all trampoline emergency room treated injuries result in hospitalization.

Trampoline Safety Tips

1. Only one person should use the trampoline at any given time.
2. There should always be an adult spotter.
3. Keep the trampoline frame and mat in good condition.
4. The trampoline's supporting bars, strings, and surrounding landing surface should have adequate protective padding.
5. Somersaults or high-risk maneuvers should be avoided without proper supervisor and instruction.
6. The trampoline jumping surface should be placed at ground level.
7. Use a trampoline in well-lighted areas.
8. Do not use a ladder with the trampoline, because it provides unsupervised access by small children.
9. Use trampoline net enclosures to help prevent people from falling off the trampoline.

MORE SAFETY TIPS

1. Place the trampoline away from fences and garages and away from overhanging objects.
2. Use a level to check that the trampoline is evenly balanced.
3. Keep the area beneath and around the trampoline clear of clothes, toys, and other items.
4. Regularly clean the mat by washing it with water.
5. Wear clothing that allows free movement, but is not loose enough to hamper your arms and legs.
6. Tip the trampoline onto its side when not in use.

Child Accident Prevention Foundation of Australia

Trampoline Safety Standards

The following new safety standards were added in 1999 to reduce the number of trampoline injuries:

1. Padding must cover the entire frame, hooks, and springs of the trampoline.
2. Labels on trampoline boxes must state that trampolines over 20 inches tall are not recommended for children under six years of age.
3. Ladders can not be sold with trampolines.
4. Warning labels visible on trampoline beds must alert jumpers against somersaults and multiple jumpers. These activities can cause death, paralysis, and various injuries.

Main Causes of Trampoline Injury

1. Colliding with another person on the trampoline.
2. Landing improperly while jumping or doing stunts.
3. Falling or jumping off the trampoline.
4. Falling on the springs or frame.
5. Excessive roughness or aggressive behavior.

Trampoline Links

1. www.abcnews.go.com/health/healthology - Trampoline Injuries Soar.
2. www.cpsc.gov - Consumer Product Safety Commission has vital injury statistics and safety recommendations for trampoline use.
3. www.trampoline.com - A trampoline dealer talks about the positives and negatives of trampolines.
4. www.usa-gymnastics.org/tt/ - Information about various USA trampoline events.
5. www.gymnastics.about.com/sports/gymnastics/cs/tumblingtramp/index.htm - The history of the trampoline and trampoline terminology.