Posted on 4 May, 2023

There's no denying the joy and excitement that inflatable bouncy castles bring to any event. Whether it's a child's birthday party, a community fun day, or a corporate family event, these colourful structures guarantee smiles, laughter, and fun memories. However, as with any playful activity, safety must be a priority. At Blackburn Bouncy Castles, based in Blackburn, we're not just about delivering the fun; we're also committed to ensuring safety. Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind when renting inflatable bouncy castles.

1. Choose a Reputable Hire Company

Your safety journey begins with the choice of rental company. It's crucial to opt for a reputable company that maintains high safety standards, like Blackburn Bouncy Castles. We ensure all our inflatables are regularly inspected, cleaned, and meet the UK's HSE safety guidelines.

2. Ensure Adequate Supervision

Supervision is key to ensuring safety on any inflatable structure. An adult should always monitor the activity, ensuring that the children play safely and follow the rules. Alternatively, consider hiring a professional supervisor who is trained to maintain safety while still ensuring everyone has a good time.

3. Understand Weight and Capacity Limits

Each inflatable has a specific weight limit and maximum capacity. Overloading an inflatable not only risks damaging the equipment but also significantly increases the risk of injury. Always adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines concerning the number of users and weight capacity.

4. Use Safety Equipment

Reputable companies will provide additional safety equipment, such as ground stakes for outdoor use and sandbags for indoor use, to secure the inflatable. Using this equipment is essential for preventing the inflatable from tipping or moving during use.

5. Check the Weather

In the UK, the weather can be unpredictable, and certain conditions can make using a bouncy castle unsafe. Strong winds, in particular, can pose a risk. As a general rule, inflatables should not be used in wind speeds exceeding 24mph. Rain can also make the bouncing surface slippery and unsafe. It's essential to have a backup plan in case of adverse weather.

6. Set Clear Rules

Before children start to bounce, lay out clear rules. No food or drinks, shoes, eyeglasses, jewellery, or sharp objects should be allowed on the inflatable. Instruct children not to push, collide, fight, or behave in a way that can injure themselves or others. It's also important to ensure that children of similar sizes use the inflatable at the same time.

7. Regular Inspections

Before and during the event, do a quick check of the bouncy castle. Look for any damage, ensure it's adequately inflated and securely anchored. If you notice anything amiss, stop the use immediately and contact us.

8. Ensure Safe Entry and Exit

Entrance and exit points can be a hotspot for accidents if not managed properly. Ensure there is a safe and clear path for children to enter and exit the inflatable, and one child at a time should use these points.

9. Check for Certification

In the UK, inflatables for commercial use should be tested annually to ensure they meet specific safety standards. Ask the rental company for proof of this certification before hiring.

10. Consider the Age and Abilities of Users

Not all bouncy castles are suitable for all ages or abilities. Ensure that the inflatable you choose is appropriate for the children who will be using it. For toddlers and smaller children, consider hiring a smaller, enclosed bouncy castle.

11. Insurance Coverage

Ensure that the rental company has appropriate insurance coverage in case of accidents or injuries. At Blackburn Bouncy Castles, we are fully insured and comply with all safety regulations to give you peace of mind.

12. First Aid Kit

While all the safety measures mentioned above significantly reduce the risk of injuries, being prepared for any minor accidents is always a wise decision. Thus, having a first aid kit close to hand during your event is highly recommended.

A basic first aid kit should include:

Sterile plasters in various sizes
Sterile eye dressings
Triangular bandages
Safety pins
Disposable sterile gloves
Tweezers and scissors
Alcohol-free cleansing wipes
Sticky tape
Thermometer
Skin rash cream
Cream or spray to relieve insect bites and stings
Antiseptic cream
Painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen
Cough medicine
Antihistamine tablets
Distilled water for cleaning wounds
Eye wash and eye bath

It's also worth considering basic first aid training. Knowing what to do in the event of an accident can make a big difference in ensuring a minor injury doesn't turn into a major one.

In addition to having a first aid kit on standby, it's also essential to have an adult present who knows how to use it. Consider taking a basic first aid course so you can confidently handle minor injuries, such as cuts, bruises, or sprains.

At Blackburn Bouncy Castles, we advocate for the highest safety standards. We believe that being well-prepared is part of ensuring a fun and safe experience for everyone. If you have any questions about safety or if you need advice on first aid during your event, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Remember, fun and safety go hand in hand. By ensuring you have a well-stocked first aid kit and are prepared to handle minor injuries, you can focus on enjoying the event knowing you're prepared for any eventuality.

Final Words

Renting a bounce house can bring unlimited fun to your event. However, it's essential to keep safety at the forefront of your planning. At Blackburn Bouncy Castles, we are committed to providing high-quality, safe inflatable rentals, and we work with our customers to ensure they understand and follow all safety guidelines.

Safety doesn't have to be complicated. By following these tips, you can ensure your event is not only fun but safe for everyone involved.

We hope this guide has been helpful. If you have any further questions about inflatable safety or you're ready to start choosing the perfect inflatable for your event, don't hesitate to get in touch at BlackburnBouncyCastles@gmail.com

We're ready to help you make your event a safe, successful, and unforgettable one!