Trampoline safety for children and teenagers

Safe trampolines

These guidelines can help you choose a safe trampoline and set it up so that your child can use it safely:

Look for a trampoline that meets the Australian Standard AS 4989.
Set up the trampoline on a flat surface.
Always use safety padding to cover the frame and springs. Even better, look for a trampoline with a safety net installed around the sides.
Check regularly that the mat and net don’t have holes, springs are intact and securely attached, frame isn’t bent, and leg braces are locked.
Create a safe, clear area of at least 2.5 m around the trampoline with a soft surface, like grass, just in case your child does fall. Or you could set the trampoline in a pit in the ground. Make sure the area around and underneath the trampoline is free from hazards like fences or garden furniture.
Make sure there aren’t any ladders or planks near the trampoline. This will stop young children climbing onto the trampoline without supervision.
Make sure there’s plenty of clear space above the trampoline, so there’s no risk of your child jumping up into trees, clothes lines or wires.

Safe trampoline use starts with simple precautions:

Make sure your child isn’t wearing jewellery or holding any sharp objects.
Check that there’s nothing in your child’s pockets.
Wait until your child is older than 6 years before getting a trampoline.
Make sure that only one child uses the trampoline at a time.
Always supervise your child on the trampoline. Younger children are more prone to serious injury.
Keep toddlers away while the trampoline is in use.
Make sure the mat is dry before your child uses the trampoline.

It’s not recommended for children under 6 years to use trampolines over 0.5 m high.

These simple rules can help your child learn to have fun on the trampoline and stay safe at the same time: