Issue Date:  -  Monday, 18 December 2000

Warning on Trampolines for Christmas

The Ministry of Fair Trading has warned parents to think about safety before buying a trampoline for their children at Christmas.

Commissioner for Fair Trading Patrick Walker said research had shown a high incidence of injuries to children using trampolines.

The number of children requiring treatment by Princess Margaret Hospital’s emergency department following trampoline accidents was 147 in 1997 and rose to 153 in 1998. Most victims were under 15 with the injuries resulting from backyard falls.

"There are no figures available for the whole state, but it’s likely that more than 300 children sustain trampoline-related injuries each year and that is a concern," Mr Walker said.

"Trampolines can be great fun, but parents need to consider safety issues if they decide to buy one, then make sure the whole family abides by some sensible rules on safe usage," he said.

The Ministry has issued the following advice:

Buying and installing a trampoline:

 - Make sure you also buy safety pads to cover steel frames and springs
 - Try to place the trampoline in a hole in the ground so that the jumping surface is as close to the ground level as possible
 - If the trampoline is placed in a hole or trench, its metal parts should be coated with a rust-preventative paint. The hole or trench should also be well drained so it does not fill with water
 - Make sure that the surface under and around the trampoline (the safe fall zone) is soft. Sand or other cushioning material will reduce injuries.
 - The safe fall zone should be at least two metres wide on all four sides of the trampoline
 - The safe fall zone should also be free from hazards (fence, clothesline trees, toys, overhead wires etc)
 - Regularly check the trampoline to make sure that the mat does not have holes, the frame is not bent, the springs are securely attached, and the leg braces are securely locked

Using the trampoline:

 - Children under six need adult supervision at all times
 - Older children need strict guidelines on proper use
 - Only one person at a time should use the trampoline
 - Keep toddlers away from the trampoline when it is being used, they may go underneath it
 - Bounce only near the centre of the mat and step on and off the trampoline rather than jump
 - Don’t allow people to sit or lean on the frame when the trampoline is in use as this can limit the frame’s natural flexibility and warp it
 - If your children want to try risky moves like somersaults, take them to a gymnasium where they can be taught and supervised by trained professionals
 - Wear clothes loose enough to allow freedom of movement, but not so loose that the flapping is distracting

There are currently no safety standards in place for trampolines, although Standards Australia is working to develop one.

"The matter of trampoline safety will be referred to WA’s Consumer Product Safety Committee for its consideration and advice," Mr Walker said.