Trampolines take injury toll on kids

A classic Kiwi pastime, but keep an eye on the fun. Photo / Hawkes Bay Today

Trampolines are bouncing one injured child a week into Starship Children's Hospital, sparking calls for parents to keep a watchful eye over the summer period.

In the period between May 2006 and April 2009, 161 children were admitted to Starship with injuries from the classic Kiwi pastime.

Almost half of the cases involved children 5-9 years old. The injuries were consistently high during the summer and school holidays, according to Safekids New Zealand.

Injuries covered everything from minor bumps, bruises, sprains and cuts to more serious broken bones and concussions.

Ann Weaver, director of Safekids New Zealand, said most of the injuries were caused from bouncing off trampolines and landing on hard objects or collisions with other people on the "tramp".

She said parents should buy trampolines that comply with New Zealand or Australian safety standards and warned them to be careful where they are placed.

Trampolines with safety nets are safer as they stop children flying off, but only one person should be on the tramp at a time, said Weaver.

"They [parents] also need to make sure it's not too close to trees, fences, or any hard objects."