Childhood injuries and inflatable attractions

Bright, colorful, and seemingly harmless inflatable trampolines… Few children can pass by such entertainment without interest. However, in addition to positive emotions, it is precisely on inflatable attractions that children sustain serious injuries.

Yes, on May 4, 2015, in the town of Gorki, Mogilev region, a 7-meter inflatable attraction-trampoline overturned right before the eyes of parents. Nine children aged 2.5 to 10 years old were hospitalized with bruises and fractures.

      Following this incident, the "Requirements for the Operation of Inflatable Amusement Equipment" were developed and entered into force, approved by Decree of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Republic of Belarus No. 35 of 30.07.2015, which establish requirements for the operation of this type of equipment.

      Here are some requirements for the installation and operation of such attractions:

      - placement at a safe distance from buildings, trees, and utility lines;

       - the presence of at least six anchoring points capable of withstanding the corresponding load, unless otherwise provided by the manufacturer and indicated in the operating documents;

       - moving parts of the equipment (ropes, rope ladders, nets, etc.) must not become entangled and pose a danger to users;

       - a zone free from any obstacles that could cause injury must be created around the attraction;

      - mandatory

      safe entry/exit and possibility of user evacuation;

      - age homogeneity of visitors must be observed (children aged 2 and 12 should not be on the same trampoline simultaneously);

      - it is important to observe the maximum permissible number of visitors;

      - the operator must always be present and able to handle various situations, provide assistance, and react quickly and clearly in emergencies.

      The operation of the attraction is not permitted:

      - without constant monitoring of the equipment and its technical inspection;

      - if any element or fastening unit is damaged;

      - in adverse weather conditions: rain, hail, wind speed exceeding 10 meters per second.

       At each

An information stand for users must be located at the entrance to the equipment, providing information about the name of the equipment and the rules of conduct for users on the equipment.

However, the presence of the listed requirements for the operation of inflatable attractions does not relieve parents of responsibility for the safety of their children. What we cannot control usually poses a danger.

Before allowing a child onto an inflatable attraction, accompanying adults should inspect the attraction from the outside, ensure it is securely fastened, and will not be blown around by the wind. The surface of the attraction should be free of patches and especially areas taped over with adhesive tape. If you see patches everywhere, it means the attraction is due for disposal. It can be reinflated, but not indefinitely. When the attraction is completely soft, the uneven and mobile surface of the trampoline creates dangerous conditions when several children are playing at once. If there are more than 3 children nearby, it becomes difficult to stand up. Waves emanating from the jumps of other children knock children down, they fall into a heap, and at this moment an injury can occur. A child can get their foot or head caught in the gaps between the inflatable parts of the trampoline, and their cry will not be heard: the children's noise and the sound of the air blower motor drown everything out.

It is important to understand and be able to explain to the child where exactly to be careful. Do not lose sight of the child while they are playing on the trampoline. The attraction attendant will not be able to

to keep an eye on all children at once. Never leave a child on a trampoline to attend to your own business.

       Read the attraction rules yourself, and also familiarize children with information about possible injuries on the trampoline in case of non-compliance with safety regulations. You can only slide down the slide feet first, lying on your back. Sliding on your stomach is allowed, but strictly feet first. However, sliding standing up or head first while lying on your stomach is dangerous. It is not recommended to slide "in a train," holding onto each other. There is a high risk that children will form a tangled heap on the descent and can get injured. Teach your child to crawl or roll away in time after descending the slide: standing up can be dangerous, and not everyone can do it. Explain why it is impossible to jump with all your might, and why it is better to jump away from other children. Start with moderately sized trampolines, or the smallest ones. Always choose an attraction according to the child's age.

      If all the listed rules are followed, the attractions will bring only pleasure and will be remembered as a bright and pleasant adventure.

 

Vitebsk Regional Directorate of Gospromnadzor.