Bounce House Basics

Answer 1

The Dangers of Bounce Houses for Children

Introduction

Inflatable bouncers are wildly popular for parties and other festivities, and it's not just little kids who enjoy bouncing. Even adults like to get in and have some fun. Bounce houses can be great entertainment, but some people worry about the safety hazards involved with bounce houses and are beginning to renounce these popular party ploys. In 2004, there were an estimated 4,900 injuries from bounce houses treated in emergency rooms. In 2010, at least two people died from bounce house related incidents. While the statistics are scary and accidents do happen, proper procedures will eliminate most hazards.

Safety Measures

One problem with inflatable bouncers is the lack of industry standards. Bounce houses are not regulated and this can sometimes cause problems. Additionally, when an inflatable bouncer is rented it often comes with little instructions. That's why it is important to be well-versed in bounce house basics before setting up an inflatable bouncer at the next birthday party or church festival.

First of all, be sure to read all instructions before assembling the product. There is frequently a list of safety precautions as well as "dos and don'ts" to follow. When an inflatable bouncer is set up outside, it should always be staked into the ground with long stakes. The stakes that come with an inflatable bouncer are generally somewhere in the range of two feet long, so a few tent stakes aren't going to do the job. Bounce houses can be yanked from the ground and tossed into the air by strong winds, even when there are people inside. In 2011, 13 people were injured after three bounce houses blew into the air.

Once the bounce house is properly set up, a competent adult should always be present to ensure there are no problems and that all rules are being followed. Two-year-old children should not occupy an inflatable bouncer at the same time as a group of teenagers. Jewelry should be removed as well as shoes and other loose items. The adult in charge should check each child before he or she enters the bounce house, and keep an eye on the age ranges as well as how many children are in the inflatable bouncer.

Injuries can occur from bounce houses, but with the proper care and management, an inflatable bouncer at a party can be the biggest hit of the year.