Injuries Increasing for Kids Using Bounce Houses

Experts recently reported that the number of children in the US injured while using inflatable bounce houses has increased to 15 times 1995 levels. The study, published in the journal Pediatrics, found that there are now approximately five injuries annually per 100,000 children. While the bounce-related injuries are much lower than trampoline injuries, the researchers point out that the study allows parents to make informed decisions. The number of kids being brought into emergency rooms for bounce-related accidents increased from 702 in 1995 to 11,311 children in 2010. The rise in the rate of injuries was attributed both to an increase in the use of the inflatable toys and better reporting of mishaps. Injuries reported included, broken bones, sprains, contusions, cuts and bruises. Researchers suggest parents follow simple guidelines when children use bounce houses to minimize risk, including limiting use to children 6 years old and older, limiting the number of children using them to at one time and only allowing use with adult supervision.