Trampolines can be dangerous fun
If you are considering buying a trampoline, give it some extra thought to make sure it’s the right choice.
Just ask Eric Chaytor of Mount Pearl, N.L. about the dangers of trampolines and the hazards that are often easily overlooked when proper research is not conducted and safety measures aren’t in place.
“I had a very serious incident on a trampoline about five years ago,” said Chaytor. “What happened to me was a complete freak accident, but, still, anything can happen.”
In 2017, Chaytor was at a local trampoline park with friends. It was during a group jump when the accident occurred. According to Chaytor, what he tried at the park that day was something he had done time and time again.
“I did a backflip and, when I came down and landed, I tried to do another backflip off the same jump. Upon the second jump, I landed head-first on the trampoline canvas and ended up breaking four of my vertebrae and I went through many major surgeries to correct the injury.”
Although Chaytor recovered, he lives with two metal rods and four screws in his spine. He said his body has never been the same nor will it be ever again.
When the accident happened, there was staff present throughout the facility. Chaytor emphasized the park is a safe space but there is no true way to monitor or ensure the safety of jumpers.
“Once I realized I was in pain, I just left. I didn’t let anyone know who worked there. So, I can’t say it is due to staff not monitoring. I believe it is because of how easily a trampoline can give you that daredevil confidence.”
The daredevil confidence he speaks about is all about the amount of time
and air you get while on a trampoline. Chaytor said it is enough, especially with friends, to give someone that push to try something beyond what they normally do.
“Accidents happen very easily and the height and time you get seem very forgiving on a trampoline.”
DANGEROUS FUN
According to Parachute, an organization whose goal is to make Canada safer by preventing serious and fatal injuries through evidence-based solutions, an average of more than 1,200 Canadian children 17 and younger suffer injuries on backyard trampolines and at trampoline parks every year.
The president and CEO of Parachute emphasized injuries are hard to prevent even with the correct safety measures in place.
“What we have heard about are injuries like traumatic brain injuries or injuries that have resulted in paralysis or even death, even though these instances are rare,” said Pamela Fuselli.
“… a lot of serious injuries happen on the trampoline when they come down at the wrong angle or on a double jump.”
The three words used by Fuselli to describe trampolines are high-risk, dangerous and fun.
Her organization doesn’t believe telling people to stay off trampolines is effective due to the level of enjoyment most receive from the activity. She feels spreading the message of safety is vital.
“We are focused on those fatal and serious injuries and, unfortunately, even though there has been some mitigation to trampoline injuries, like putting nets around the trampoline, we continue to see injuries, especially in younger age groups and that concerns us.”
Fuselli added how, even with trained spotters, it’s very difficult to prevent some injuries.
Her advice is to ensure your trampoline canvas and springs are in working order. Supervision is also a must.
“Understanding your skill level, experience and co-ordination,” is also vital, Fuselli recommended.