If you have ever owned a trampoline, you will know that it provides endless entertainment for all ages. However, as the nice weather continues, parents are being warned against making one critical trampoline mistake that could pose a real safety threat.
The Dangerous Mistake
Although the heatwave has passed, the warmer season is still upon us. To help everyone cool off, you might feel tempted to hose down your children as they bounce on the trampoline or take part in a water fight. But parents are being urged never to do this, as experts warn the common garden error could result in 'serious' incidents.
Trampoline experts say that numerous families accidentally transform trampolines into 'slip hazards' by using hoses, sprinklers or paddling pool-type activities to cool down children.
Expert Insight
Thomas Hagel, trampoline designer at NorthTrampoline.com, said: "When temperatures rise, it's completely understandable that parents look for ways to help children cool off while still playing outside. But water should never be used directly on a trampoline mat because it creates a very slippery surface and significantly increases the risk of accidents."
"Children can easily lose their footing, slip or land awkwardly. A wet trampoline also increases the risk of children landing on each other as they lose their balance. If families want to use water in the garden, keep it completely separate from the trampoline area."
Heat Risks
The company says there is no official temperature at which trampolines become unsafe from a product standpoint, but parents should monitor children closely for signs of overheating, particularly during lengthy jumping sessions in direct sunlight.
Thomas added: "The biggest risk in hot weather is not the trampoline itself overheating, it's children overheating without realising it. Kids can become so absorbed in playing that they don't notice how hot or dehydrated they are becoming."
Safer Alternatives
Rather than applying water to the trampoline itself, North Trampoline has outlined several safer alternatives to keep children active outdoors during warm spells.
Thomas said: "One of the best tips is to move the trampoline into a naturally shaded part of the garden where possible, such as beside a tree or on the side of the house that avoids the strongest afternoon sun."
The experts also recommend attaching breathable fabric or shade covers to the sun-facing side of a trampoline net to create cooler spots while still permitting airflow.
Parents are additionally being encouraged to reconsider the timing of trampoline use throughout the day. Rather than allowing children to bounce during the peak afternoon heat, Thomas advises that early mornings and cooler evenings are safer and more comfortable.
He said: "Evening jumping sessions are brilliant during warm weather because the trampoline mat is cooler, the air temperature is lower and children can still enjoy being active outdoors without the intense midday heat."
