Why So Many Florida Kids Get Hurt in Bounce Houses
Many Florida parents think bounce houses are a fun, safe way for kids to play at birthday parties or other events. But the research shows a different story.
Child injuries in inflatable bounce houses have increased steadily over the last 20 years, according to an article in the Journal of Pediatric Surgery. Some kids have ended up in emergency rooms with broken bones, sprains, bruises, and even concussions after playing in inflatable bounce houses.
Here’s what you need to know about why so many Florida kids get hurt in bounce houses and what you can do to keep yours safe.
Common Causes of Bounce House Injuries in Florida
Many bounce house injuries share the same root causes, some of which adults can prevent with more caution or better planning. Here are some of the most common reasons kids suffer serious injuries in bounce houses:
- Too many kids inside at once – If a bounce house gets crowded, kids might bump into each other more often. That increases the chance of falling or landing the wrong way.
- Kids of different sizes bouncing together – Bigger kids can knock smaller kids over without meaning to. That can cause serious injuries, especially to younger children.
- Lack of adult supervision – Adults sometimes assume kids are safe inside the bounce house. However, unsafe behavior can get out of control without someone watching closely.
- Improper setup – A bounce house not tied down or inflated correctly can collapse or blow over. Numerous Florida kids have been injured or killed in wind-related bounce house incidents.
- Rough play or attempted tricks – Flips, wrestling, or pushing can cause kids to fall awkwardly or hit the sides of the bounce house hard.
Most Frequent Types of Injuries Children Sustain
Emergency rooms nationwide treat thousands of kids each year for bounce house-related injuries. Here are some examples of the most common injuries doctors see:
- Bone fractures
- Muscle strains
- Contusions (bruises)
- Concussions
- Sprains
- Dislocations
- Cuts or scrapes
- Head injuries
- Spine injuries
Florida Regulations for Bounce Houses, or Lack Thereof
Florida does not have statewide safety rules for bounce houses. Some local governments require inspections or permits, but others do not. Rules can also vary based on whether the bounce house is at a private home, public park, or rental business.
The state does not check every bounce house for setup, maintenance, or safety training. That means many bounce houses go up without proper inspections. Parents often assume someone has approved the setup, but that’s not always true.
However, Florida courts can hold responsible parties liable in civil court when their negligence causes injury to children inside a bounce house.
Safety Measures for Parents Considering Bounce Houses
If you’re planning a party or event with a bounce house, don’t rely on the rental company to keep your family safe. Take these extra steps to protect your kids and their friends from bounce house injuries:
- Limit the number of kids – Allow only a few kids to bounce at a time.
- Group kids by size – Keep younger or smaller kids separate from older or bigger ones, and set weight limits.
- Watch at all times – Stay nearby and keep your eyes on the bounce house.
- Choose a flat, clear space for setup – Make sure the area has no rocks, sticks, or sharp objects.
- Ensure the bounce house is properly anchored – Look for strong straps and stakes holding the bounce house in place.
- Skip it for kids under six – Younger kids can lose their balance and land awkwardly.
- Prevent children from performing flips and tricks – Let your kids know that somersaults, flips, or rough play are not allowed.
- Keep dangerous items out – Have kids remove their shoes and remove items from their pockets before entering.
Contact Us If Your Child Has Been Injured in a Bounce House Accident
If your child got hurt in a bounce house accident in Florida, contact a South Florida personal injury lawyer at the law firm of Rosen & Ohr, P.A., today. Our experienced lawyers will take the time to listen, answer your questions, and help you evaluate your best legal options. Your initial consultation is free, and there’s no pressure to move forward unless you feel ready.
