Trampolines

[Guest guest]

This article is not funny ...... but I couldn't help but think of

the Simpsons trampoline episode.

 

Jo

 

 

Health experts have issued guidance on how to use trampolines safely

after a major rise in the number of accidents.

Physiotherapists said equipment should be set up away from trees and

fences and should not be used by children under six. Others should be

supervised.

 

In 2002 alone, 11,500 people in the UK were taken to hospital with

trampoline injuries - a 50% rise since 1997 - amid the equipment's

growing popularity.

 

A 12-year-old boy died this year after banging his head on a

trampoline.

 

Ryan Morris, from Staffordshire, suffered a blood clot after the

accident.

 

TRAMPOLINE PRECUATIONS

Set the trampoline up in hole, so falling distance is not as great

Keep it free of fences and trees

Ensure springs, hooks and frame all covered by padding

Place cushioning, such as wood chips or padding around trampoline

Children should always be supervised

Only one person should use it at a time

Children under six should not use them

Do not exit trampoline by bouncing

Remove all jewellery

 

And just last week, a 14-year-old Jersey boy suffered spine injuries

in an accident on a trampoline.

 

Chartered Society of Physiotherapy representative Peta Smith said

people were often injured by falling off trampolines, landing

awkwardly and through over exertion.

 

" The key for everyone is to use trampolines in a safe way, not push

your body too hard and make sure you bounce in a controlled way to

avoid injury, " she said.

 

" You should prepare for using the trampoline like you would if you

were going to the gym, because it can be a full aerobic workout. "

 

She also unveiled a series of precautions as trampolines are becoming

ever more popular for children to play on in gardens.

 

These included setting the trampoline up in a hole to reduce the

falling distance and placing cushioning material around the

trampoline site.

 

David Walker, an officer at the Royal Society for the Prevention of

Accidents, said there were serious concerns about how people were

using trampolines.

 

" We do not believe trampolines are dangerous toys. It is a

behavioural thing, " he said.

 

" People have to take the necessary precautions and these are all good

steps to take.

 

" Parents should realise children can suffer serious injuries playing

on trampolines. "