Trampoline

[Scoot]

My wife says we "need" a trampoline for the kids. So, like it or not, we're getting one.

What features should I look for in a "good trampoline"? Obviously it needs to be fully enclosed- I know that much. Any suggestions on make or models would be appreciated.

[Ryan_V]

I think they're all pretty much the same. my suggestion is to anchor it to the ground. trust me on this one!

[Deitz Dittrich]

also look into your health or home insurance.. I believe some insurance companies have a no tramp clause.. I know from seeing hurt kids at school. Many have come from tramps..

[RiverFish]

Most insurance companies will not cover trampoline injuries or damage to property from a trampoline.

Another safety concern, a lot of accidents are not caused by falling off the trampoline but rather collisions or fall in the trampoline.

[TooTallTom]

Another safety concern, a lot of accidents are not caused by falling off the trampoline but rather collisions or fall in the trampoline.

Or going through the gap between the springs and frame. I never did like jumping on tramps as a kid... Too high strung, I guess.

[92python]

I just got one a week ago and the kids really love it. 13 foot one with the sides from Menards.

The price was pretty good and there are no complaints from the girls..

[Whopper Stopper]

Buy the kids a couple of dirt bikes. Much safer!

WS

[Ryan_V]

Buy the kids a couple of dirt bikes. Much safer!

WS

Thats a little extreme. Ok, maybe alot. We've had a trampoline for over 5 years with no problems. Injuries come when kids (or adults) are too reckless doing flips and such. My kids aren't allowed on ours without an adult present. As with anything else, a little common sense goes a long way.

[G.J.]

Deitz is right about checking with the home insurance carrier. A few companies don't allow them and would cancel the policy if they knew a insured had one. Most companies don't have a problem but may require a fenced yard whether the trampoline is caged or not. Make sure you anchor it well, have seen two incidents where they went airborn, one sending a elderly gentleman to the hospital when struck from the next door neighbors trampoline. Kicking up the liability and med pay limits on a home policy is really cheap and you'll want to do it.

[RiverFish]

Read this from CBS and you will not want to get a trampoline:

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2010/04/28/earlyshow/contributors/susankoeppen/main6439922.shtml