Pediatricians would like to ban a favorite childhood activity.

If you think trampolines with protective screens are safe – think again. 

About one million people visited hospital emergency rooms as a result of trampoline accidents over the past 10 years – and many doctors would like to see them banned. That netting may keep the jumpers in but it doesn’t prevent injury. The most common mishaps are broken fingers, hands, forearms and elbows, followed by broken legs and ankles. Sadly, the other injuries included broken spines, ribs and necks. Older kids are especially at risk. They jump higher and attempt more flips. They also tend to compete with their friends or little ones and are more at risk dangerous counter-bounces and midair collisions. 

If you have a trampoline and still aren’t convinced to get rid of it, you’d better check your homeowners insurance to be sure it covers trampoline injuries. Some insurance companies may even decline or cancel a policy with a trampoline on the premises. Others will add a nuisance surcharge or exclude coverage on the trampoline, which means you’ll be responsible for any medical bills.