Jumping inflatables typically refer to bouncy castles, a staple of children’s parties and community events. These play devices are inflated with air and provide a soft surface for kids to leap and fall on, but that does not mean they’re entirely safe. Jumping inflatable use has led to serious accidents and parents should be aware of the numerous dangers associated with these devices. Adults should supervise jumping inflatables to reduce the risk of accidents

Wind
Jumping inflatables present a danger when they are not secured properly. Unsecured inflatables can move suddenly when the weather is especially windy. When an inflatable gets blown away by a powerful gust of wind, the consequences are painful for people on the inflatable at the time. Securing an inflatable may not always be enough, either. According to Inside Edition, which conducted research into the effects of wind on jumping inflatables, wind speeds of 70 miles per hour or more can cause an inflatable to take off even when staked down. It’s best to avoid using a jumping inflatable on a windy day.

Collisions
Jumping inflatables like bouncy castles typically provide room for several users at once. Too many people using an inflatable simultaneously can lead to individuals crashing into each other, causing bruising and possibly more serious injuries. Dangers can also arise if a larger child is allowed to use the inflatable at the same time as smaller kids, since the larger child could fall on a smaller child.

Outside the Inflatable
The area outside of the jumping inflatable can be as dangerous as the device itself. Since the users of the inflatable will often leap and throw themselves around chaotically, it’s possible that a person could fall from the device and hit the ground. This collision has resulted in death in at least one case, when a child collided with a concrete floor, as reported by Inside Edition. Safety mats should be used to reduce the likelihood of this danger.

Wear and Tear
The materials jumping inflatables are constructed from won’t last forever, and wear and tear is an inevitable problem with these devices. Jumping inflatable owners should ensure that any rips or tears are swiftly dealt with, to avoid users tripping over, or worse, the device deflating and trapping a child, suffocating him.