Trampoline risks & how to protect yourself

Trampolines have added excitement and energy to backyards across Canada for decades. They are a great way to exercise and a fun summer activity. Trampolines also come with risks. 

If someone gets hurt on your trampoline you could be held legally responsible. That could mean paying for medical bills or facing legal action. 

Know the risks of owning a trampoline before you buy one. Keep reading to learn more about:

• your responsibility as a trampoline owner,
• types of insurance coverage for trampolines,
• tips for trampolining to help keep safe while bouncing.

How serious are trampoline injuries?

Trampoline injuries happen fast. It only takes a second to go from having fun to visiting an emergency room. 

They don’t just happen fast. Trampoline accidents happen more often than you may think. When they do, trampoline accidents can cause serious injuries.  

According to Parachute, a Canadian charity dedicated to helping prevent injuries, every year, over 1,200 children are injured on trampolines. From broken bones to head injuries, these accidents can be serious. 

“The most common types of trampoline-related injuries include fractures, sprains and traumatic brain injuries. Although rare, trampoline injuries can result in paralysis and death.”

If you’re thinking about a trampoline for your home or cottage, know that:

• jumping on a trampoline is a high risk activity
• jumping on a trampoline can cause serious injury

Is it safe to jump on a trampoline?

Medical associations and advocacy groups agree that trampolining is a high risk activity. Each of the associations below recommend that parents do not buy trampolines for their home or cottage.

• Canadian Paediatric Society,
• Canadian Academy of Sport Medicine,
• American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP),
• Alberta Health Services
• Parachute

If someone gets hurt on your trampoline, you’re responsible. Know the risks of having a trampoline before you get one.

Legal risks of having a trampoline

Trampoline owners are legally responsible—or liable—for any injuries on their trampoline. 

If someone—invited or not—is hurt while using your trampoline, you could be financially and legally responsible. This can include paying for things like:

• medical bills, 
• legal costs, 
• and potential lawsuit settlements.

Attractive nuisance

Trampolines are considered an attractive nuisance. That’s something that draws kids to it, at the same time posing a danger to them.

Other examples of attractive nuisances are:

• Swimming pools
• Play structures
• Tree houses

If you have a trampoline, you have to do your best to:

• prevent people from using it without your permission.
• keep a safe environment—even for guests you didn’t invite.

Can you get insurance for a trampoline?

You can get trampoline coverage, but it’s not offered by every insurance provider. 

If you’re considering a trampoline for your home or cottage, here are coverages that will help protect you.

Homeowners insurance for a trampoline

Damage caused by your trampoline

A standard home or renter’s insurance policy can include trampoline coverage. If yours does, you’ll find it under “liability coverage”. 

Not all companies offer trampoline insurance. There are insurance companies that don’t offer any coverage for trampoline-related injuries. Others provide coverage, as long as you do things to reduce risk.

Reduce risk and show that you’re a responsible trampoline owner by:

• Installing a protective net around the trampoline
• Keeping the trampoline in a fenced, locked area
• Using protective padding on springs and frames

Trampolines can be dangerous. If you’re thinking of getting one, it’s important to find out if you’re covered for:

• Medical expenses
• Legal fees
• Lawsuit settlements

Damage to your trampoline 

Depending on the details of the policy, home insurance may cover damage to your trampoline. Common damages that you may be insured for are: 

• vandalism, 
• theft,
• or weather events

If you’re not sure about your coverage, check with your insurance broker or provider. 

Don’t have an insurance broker? Meet with an Orbit expert—discover service that revolves around you. 

Personal umbrella insurance

Knowing that owning a trampoline is high risk, you may want to have more coverage. A personal umbrella insurance policy offers extra financial protection.

If a trampoline-related injury leads to a lawsuit, your homeowners insurance may not be enough. An umbrella insurance policy can help cover expenses.

Riders or special insurance policies for trampolines

Depending on the insurer, you might be able to add a rider for trampolines to your insurance.

A rider is an added insurance that helps customize your protection to your personal needs. The rider can: 

• be attached to an existing homeowner's policy
• stand-alone as a separate coverage.

Make sure you’re protected. Before buying a trampoline, speak with an insurance broker. 

Reduce your risk with these trampoline safety tips

While insurance helps protect you financially, accident prevention should always be your top priority. 

There is risk associated with having a trampoline at your home or cottage. If you’re comfortable with that, here are five ways to be more trampoline-safe.

1. Install proper safety features.

Consider implementing these key features to reduce the risk of injury:

• Use an enclosure net to prevent falls
• Add protective padding on the springs and frame
• Ensure the trampoline is on level ground and in good condition

2. Have a “one jumper at a time” rule.

According to Health Canada most trampoline injuries are caused by inappropriate use, including having more than one person on the trampoline at a time. 

Having and enforcing a one-at-a-time rule will help prevent injuries.

3. Supervise children at all times.

Adult supervision helps:

• Kids remember the rules for safe jumping
• discourage flips or stunts that increase the chances of getting hurt
• ensure that safety features are being used correctly

4. Inspect for damage regularly.

Trampolines should be checked regularly to make sure they’re safe. This means inspecting the: 

• jumping surface or mat
• springs or rods, depending on the type of trampoline
• and enclosure net 

Replace worn or broken parts right away.

5. Secure your yard. 

A fenced yard with a locked gate helps keep people from using your trampoline without asking. It also helps to: 

• reduce your personal financial risk
• show that you are a responsible trampoline owner

Make sure you’re covered for trampoline accidents

A trampoline can bring fun and laughter to your yard. Trampolines also bring a real risk of injury and liability. The right insurance will help protect you in case of a trampoline injury.

Protect yourself from trampoline risks:

• Review your homeowner's insurance for trampoline coverage
• Talk with a licensed insurance broker 
• Consider added coverage

Shopping for home insurance? Need to update your policy? Our expert brokers will find the best coverage for you. Enjoy summer knowing that you’re protected. Contact us today for a free, custom quote. 

Contact Us

Request a quote