Common Trampoline Safety Net Problems

While many trampoline owners have found years of safety and comfort with their safety nets, unfortunately, there are several common trampoline safety net problems that every owner is bound to experience eventually. Some of these problems come from negligent use, improper fitting, material hazards, or even regular wear-and-tear. Knowing how to recognize, repair, and prevent safety net problems will ensure your continued enjoyment of your backyard equipment.

The most common trampoline safety net problems are small rips and tears.

The harder to see the rips are, the more dangerous they become. Tears are usually caused by tree branches, storm blown debris, pets, wild animals, but most commonly innocent children through regular use. When a small rip or hole is nearly invisible somebody may unknowingly bounce or lean against it, causing the rip to expand and causing a bouncer to hit the ground. Rips and tears can commonly be sewn up with strong nylon string, but if the damage is significant enough it may warrant a replacement.

Another often overlooked but equally dangerous safety net problem involves having an improperly sized net. Trampolines come in many sizes and varieties, and that means that there are many types of safety barriers as well. For example, using a net that is designed for a six legged trampoline on a trampoline with eight legs will create spacing problems with the net, and gaps or holes may be a result. A gap in a safety net always creates the potential for entrapment, even for pets that just may be checking out the trampoline from the ground. To prevent this hazardous occurrence, always check with the manufacturer’s specifications of acceptable safety net sizes.

A simple trampoline net is not all that is necessary for a safe trampoline.

Some consumers overlook the option to purchase trampoline nets with attached trampoline pad. These pads are durable, thick, and shock absorbent. A knee or elbow dinged on the hard steel trampoline frame can be extremely painful. Even more dangerous is the ability to become trapped between the springs. A pad to cover these spots will keep stray cats from jumping up and using your trampoline as a place to sleep. If you don’t already have a trampoline pad, consider getting one attached to the net. This will prevent it from slipping or coming detached!

There are plenty of hazards associated with safety nets when it comes to small children. Tags, hooks, snaps, and zippers can become detached and present a choking hazard. I would consider this to be more of a danger than a problem. Checking your safety net regularly for loose hanging objects will reduce this risk. Children and pets are likely to notice a loose part rather quickly, so it’s good to be on guard! Simply cut off or repair parts that are easily removable.

Most common trampoline safety net problems can be eliminated simply by purchasing a high quality net. The pain and hassle of replacing cheap nets is only the beginning of the problem, considering how necessary nets are to prevent serious accidents. Remember to replace your trampoline safety net every few years, and always be on the lookout for damage. Catching small holes or rips early can increase the longevity of your trampoline barrier, saving you money!