Trampolines are a favourite play thing across Australia, but experts including the American Academy of Paediatrics warn some trampolines can be the source of serious injury.
At Sydney Children’s Hospital (SCH) alone, approximately 140 children a year present to the Emergency Department with trampoline related injuries. The most common injuries sustained are lacerations, bruises, sprains and fractures. Over the past two years, two children have been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit with serious injuries.
Research shows measures to make trampolines safer, such as padding to cover springs and the introduction of boundary enclosures, are not working and trampolines continue to be a major source of childhood injury. An Australian study led by Dr David Eager of the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) provides evidence that non-traditional trampolines help reduce injuries caused by falling off or impact with the frame and springs.
Dr Donovan Dwyer, Head of Trauma at SCH welcomes initiatives that encourage children to safely maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.
“Trampolines are very popular amongst children and like many other sporting activities, can lead to injury. We encourage all parents to supervise their children when they jump on trampolines and help reduce the risk of injury by following simple rules like only having one child on a trampoline at a time.
“Studies show that trampoline related injury rates are lower in children who use spring free trampolines and Jump For Kids is a great opportunity to promote healthy activity and fun for children.”
- With any trampoline jumping, health professionals recommend:
- Only one child on a trampoline at a time
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Supervise children under 6 years at all times
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Remove ladders and chairs so children do not have ease of access
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Keep a 2 metre area around the trampoline free of sharp or dangerous objects
- Make sure your trampoline has quality safety pads or be spring free design and has no metal or hard pieces.
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