Moms Talk: Are Backyard Trampolines Safe?

Each week, readers are invited to send questions to the Alpharetta-Milton Moms Council to get opinions on. This group of local moms then answers the question sent and opens the discussion up to you readers for more input. We invite you to join in our discussion by adding to the comments section and to send in questions by hitting the email the author button. 

If you really like this regular column and want to take part–or maybe you just know your answers would be more helpful–then why don't you join our Moms Council? Email Bob Pepalis or Tammy Bester.

This week, Patch received the following question.

I am curious what you all think about trampolines. I was just told that they cause more injuries than all other kids sports and toys combined. I was also told that they would be a huge liability on me if a neighbor got hurt. I wonder if I should let neighhbors play on mine and if I should let my kids play on theirs. 

Q:  Are backyard trampolines safe?

A: We never had a trampoline until this year, but we finally got one because they spent so much time on the neighbor's. 
I guess I have to knock on wood, but we haven't seen any injuries in the last seven years. However we do have some rules and requirements, such as their is no jumping if there is no net. We set a limit to how many kids can be on at one time and they take turns while doing tricks. Sometimes it is just a great place to "hang out". 
I don't think trampolines pose a greater risk than other kids activities or sports such as biking, football, baseball etc..
I like to jump occasionally myself! -Teri Harrison, mom of 4

A: We just got a trampoline this year as well. I have always been strict that my kids were not to play on other people's unless there was a net and parent supervision. Now that we have one, I am glad I did this. I have seen neighbor kids get on it with my kids and they do flips, twists and games that involve play that could be dangerous. the rules on the trampoline have recently changed in our house.

I am curious what the liability is on them and how dangerous they really are. I have heard people go in both directions on the discussion. 

I think that as long as there is a net and parents are watching the kids and preventing them from getting too wild, they are safe and fun ways for the kids to play.-Tammy Bester, mom of 3