Before allowing anyone to bounce on the trampoline, you must set it up properly and in the proper environment. The manual that comes with your
trampoline will list weight restrictions, as well as space restrictions. You risk breaking the trampoline and causing great harm to someone if you put too much weight on the trampoline. Also do not put trampolines under trees or other objects, because you (or someone else) may bounce higher than you think possible.

There are some basic rules to follow when using a trampoline to ensure the safety of the bouncer, as well as the persons around them. If you don't follow the rules and you use the trampoline incorrectly your chances of getting injured increase. Of course, the same holds true with any sport or physical activity. For example, riding a bike is usually quite safe, but if you race, do wheelies or dart in and out of traffic, you increase your risk of getting injured. With trampoline activity, it is safest if one person at a time bounces on a trampoline, even though the trampoline may have enough room for more than one person at a time. If two people are bouncing on a trampoline, one person may be going up and the other person may be coming
down. Injury could occur because when one person is on the way up, the bed of the trampoline is being pushed towards the other person as he hits it. That sensation feels like the person is hitting the ground, rather than the bed of the trampoline. Of course, that sensation is exacerbated if more than two people are jumping on a trampoline at the same time. There is also the risk that the jumpers could bump heads, push one person off the trampoline, or land on top of one another. Therefore, it is best to have a rule "Only
one person at a time on the trampoline." There should always be an adult available to supervise the use of a trampoline. And there should always be a "spotter."

The trampoline should include the proper safety features. The metal frame should be covered with specially fit safety pads. It would also be a good
idea to have special mats around the trampoline in case someone falls off, so that he doesn't land on the hard ground. For additional safety special nets may be used in case someone falls or is propelled off of the
trampoline.

Do not allow anyone to perform movements such as somersaults or other tricks on your trampoline. These movements are too risky when done without proper
training and supervision. A bounce off of a trampoline has great impact because you are falling from the top of a bounce down onto the ground or possibly onto the springs or frame of the trampoline. However, in a gym, such as when your child is taking part in gymnastics
lessons, the trampoline is surrounded by specially designed thick pads, and also by spotters who know how to prevent the bouncer from falling. Injuries
are not as likely to occur in such settings.

During competitions, at least four spotters are utilized. They are always placed at each corner of the trampoline and are trained to break the fall of the athlete who bounces off the side of the trampoline. The bouncer is most likely to land on the ends of a trampoline. Therefore, trampolines used in competition are always fitted with padded end decks (but this would be a
good idea for home use too).

Accidents occur all too often when used in private home settings. Most home trampolines are situated on the hard ground, and most do not have the proper
supervision. Children often take risks of performing somersaults or other acrobatic movements that they are not ready to perform. In recent years, manufacturers have created kits for home trampoline use. These kits contain a net that is attached to the trampoline to form a net wall, which prevents the users from bouncing over the edge. However, some people believe that these nets do not offer adequate protection and may even be a hindrance at times because jumpers can become entangled in them. However, the benefits of net protection would outweigh the risks.