Dr. Bob: My nephew, age 10, got a trampoline for Christmas. His parents made sure to get the side netting and protective pads over the springs. My children, ages 5 and 8, cannot wait to go over and play. What are your thoughts and how can I be sure to keep things safe for my children?
Answer: Well, as a pediatrician and child safety advocate, I strongly urge that backyard trampolines not be used. I know that that sounds too cautious but let me explain. I have seen injuries and certainly read in pediatric journals of serious trampoline-related injuries, and it would be irresponsible of me to encourage the use of trampolines for children in an unprofessional setting. In my remarks below, I rely heavily on the www.healthychildren.org website of the American Academy of Pediatrics.
- Injuries include broken bones (sometimes surgery is needed); sprains and strains, bruises, scrapes and cuts; concussions and other head injuries; and head and neck injuries (which can lead to permanent paralysis or death).
- Injuries occur because children land wrong when jumping; try stunts; try somersaults or flips (too dangerous!); or strike or run into another person on the trampoline at the same time. (Netting and spring pads can lure parents into a false sense of security!)
- My recommendation – do not have or use a mini or full-sized trampoline at home. We all recognize that physical activity for children is so important but there are less dangerous ways for them to get exercise. Trampolines should only be used in controlled training settings—adult supervised training programs for gymnastics, diving or other competitive sports. Even then, only one person at a time.
- If you must – If you insist that you want to have your children play on a trampoline at their cousin’s house or even have a trampoline at home, please be sure to follow the following rules –
- adult supervision at all times
- a level surface on the ground
- only one person at a time
- no somersaults!
- Protective equipment (netting and pads) should be checked and fully functional. These checks should be on a regular basis.
- Check your homeowner’s insurance policy. Are trampoline-related accidents covered?
I realize that my answer to your question is very unsatisfying and some might argue too restrictive. If you have seen children that have suffered trampoline-related injuries, there is no doubt that you would feel the same as I do. I will always make my recommendations based on the health and safety of children.
Dr. Bob: My mother-in-law is a heavy smoker. I worry about my children being exposed to that smoke when they are visiting at her house. She assures me that she does not smoke inside when they are there. Is it still safe?
Answer: The short answer is no. In my experience, smokers often smoke in the house (bathroom, their bedroom or even a closet) when others are there and say that they do not smoke in the house. That cigarette smoke is still in the house. Even though the children are not getting first-hand exposure (actual smoking), they are getting second-hand exposure (it’s in the air) and third-hand exposure (the cigarette/tobacco residue on furniture and clothing). Both second-hand and third-hand exposure is harmful to children, especially those with any respiratory illnesses and/or asthma. I would hope that for the safety of her grandchildren that grandmother would make a serious attempt to curtail smoking. There is a lot more to be said about this subject in future columns.
Dr. Saul is Professor of Pediatrics (Emeritus) at Prisma Health and his website is www.mychildrenschildren.com. Contact Dr. Bob at askdrbobsaul@gmail.com with more questions.