Planning to have a jumping castle at your next pool party? That sounds like a blast! But when setting up near water, safety needs to be front and centre. So, how do you safely install a jumping castle near a pool without risking any accidents? Let’s walk through a few key tips to keep the fun going while making sure everyone stays safe.

1. Keep a Safe Distance from the Pool

First things first – you’ll want to set up the jumping castle at a safe distance from the pool. While it might be tempting to have it right next to the water, the risk of someone falling or jumping into the pool is too high. Aim for at least 2 to 3 metres of separation between the castle and the pool. This gives kids plenty of room to bounce around safely without getting too close to the water’s edge.

2. Use Non-Slip Mats or Flooring

The area around pools can get slippery, and wet feet can be a hazard when kids run between the pool and the jumping castle. To prevent slips and falls, lay down non-slip mats or use grip flooring near the entrance of the jumping castle. This small step can make a big difference in keeping everyone safe.

3. Secure the Castle with Extra Anchoring

When you’re setting up near a pool, you’ll want to make sure the jumping castle is securely anchored. Uneven surfaces or damp ground can cause instability. Use extra stakes or weighted sandbags to anchor the castle properly, especially if you’re on a grassy or soft surface. Make sure the anchor points are checked regularly throughout the day.

4. Supervision Is Essential

You should always have an adult supervising the jumping castle, but when it’s set up near a pool, this becomes even more important. Have someone dedicated to watching both the jumping castle and the pool area to ensure kids aren’t running between the two unsafely. It’s also a good idea to limit how many kids are on the castle at once to avoid overcrowding.

5. Set Clear Rules for the Kids

Before the kids start bouncing, lay down some ground rules. Make it clear that no one should be jumping off the castle into the pool, and that they need to walk (not run!) between the jumping castle and the pool. Having clear rules will help prevent any accidents from happening.

6. Keep Electrical Equipment Far from Water

If the jumping castle is powered by an electric blower, make sure it’s placed far away from the pool and water. Water and electricity don’t mix, so keep all power cords and electrical equipment well away from the pool area. A GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) can also add an extra layer of protection against electrical hazards.

Final Thoughts

Setting up a jumping castle near a pool can be loads of fun, but safety should always come first. By keeping a safe distance, using non-slip mats, ensuring secure anchoring, and having proper supervision, you’ll be all set for a day of worry-free fun. Just remember to set the rules, keep an eye on things, and most importantly – enjoy the party!