Minister jumps in on trampoline safety

Minister for Fair Trading Stuart Ayres is urging all parents to be vigilant in the back yard over Christmas when their children are playing on trampolines.

“Trampolines are a popular Christmas gift and a fun way for kids to get exercise and be entertained,” he said.

“However, although trampoline designs have come a long way when it comes to safety over the past decade, at least eight Australian children  – mainly aged between five and nine – are still being injured on trampolines every day.”

Mr Ayres said a survey conducted earlier this year by Kidsafe Western Australia identified a range of unsafe practices that could be putting children at risk.

“The survey also found that less than a quarter of parents and carers said they always supervise their children on trampolines,” he said.

“Unsafe trampolines and careless use of the equipment doesn’t just result in a few bumps and bruises. Fractures, open wounds, dislocations and head injuries are regularly seen by hospital accident and emergency staff and sadly, there has even been one fatality.”

Mr Ayres said the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) in partnership with state and territory consumer protection agencies, has implemented a targeted national communication program on trampoline safety, which includes helpful tips for ensuring this holiday season remains injury-free.

These tips include:

1. One at a time: Make sure there is only one child on the trampoline.

2. Supervise: Watch children at all times, and take extra care with younger children as they are more prone to serious injury.

3. Safety padding: Always use safety padding on the frame.

4. Check condition. Regularly check the:

• mat and net don’t have holes
• springs are intact and securely attached at both ends
• frame is not bent
• leg braces are locked.

5. Hazard free surrounds. Make sure:

• the area around the trampoline is free from hazards like fences or garden furniture
• there is an overhead clearance to avoid objects like clotheslines, trees and wires.