When a cyclone threatens, the safest and most critical action you can take for your trampoline is to move it to a secure, enclosed location like your garage or a sturdy shed. This prevents it from becoming a dangerous projectile in extreme winds.
Prioritizing Safety: Why Indoor Storage is Key
A trampoline, with its large surface area and relatively light construction, is highly susceptible to strong winds. During a cyclone, winds can reach devastating speeds, easily lifting even anchored trampolines. Once airborne, a trampoline transforms into a significant hazard, capable of causing severe damage to homes, vehicles, and posing a serious risk to life.
- Projectile Risk: In cyclone-force winds, a trampoline can become a deadly projectile, traveling great distances and causing extensive damage.
- Structural Damage: Even if it doesn't become airborne, strong winds can bend, break, or otherwise damage the trampoline's frame and springs.
- Property Protection: Securing your trampoline protects your own property and that of your neighbors from potential impact damage.
The Safest Approach: Dismantle and Store
For heavy storms like a cyclone, a hurricane, or a tornado, relying solely on anchors is insufficient. It is crucial to move the trampoline to a secure location like your garage. This often involves dismantling the trampoline.
Here's a step-by-step guide to secure your trampoline:
- Check the Forecast: Stay informed about local weather warnings and the expected intensity of the cyclone. The earlier you prepare, the better. Reputable sources like the Bureau of Meteorology (Australia) or National Hurricane Center (USA) provide crucial updates.
- Gather Tools: You'll likely need a wrench, spring tool (if applicable), and possibly a screwdriver to disassemble the frame.
- Remove Safety Net and Padding: These are the easiest parts to remove and can be stored first. They are also highly susceptible to being torn or blown away.
- Detatch the Jumping Mat: Using a spring tool, carefully unhook all the springs connecting the mat to the frame. Store the mat flat or rolled up.
- Disassemble the Frame: Take apart the main frame sections. This typically involves unbolting or uncoupling the legs and top ring.
- Move All Components Indoors: Transport all parts – mat, springs, frame, net, and padding – into a garage, shed, or another sturdy, enclosed space where they are protected from the wind and rain.
When Anchoring Might Be Considered (and its Limitations)
While the best practice for a cyclone is always to dismantle and store, some may consider anchoring for less severe, but still strong, windy conditions. However, trampoline anchors aren't perfect, especially for heavy storms.
- Purpose of Anchors: In moderately windy environments, it might be best to anchor your trampoline. Anchors typically consist of spiral stakes driven into the ground, with straps securing the trampoline legs. This can help prevent the trampoline from shifting or tipping in everyday windy conditions.
- Cyclone Ineffectiveness: For cyclone-level winds, anchors often cannot withstand the immense uplift forces. The ground itself can become saturated and lose its grip on the anchors, or the straps can break. Do not rely on anchors alone for cyclone protection.
Essential Pre-Cyclone Preparations
Proactive measures can make a significant difference in how effectively you can secure your trampoline:
- Regular Maintenance: Ensure all bolts are tightened and the frame is in good condition. A well-maintained trampoline is easier to secure.
- Familiarize Yourself with Disassembly: Know how to take your trampoline apart before a cyclone warning is issued. Practice if necessary.
- Identify Storage Space: Ensure you have adequate, secure indoor space for all the trampoline components well in advance.
Post-Cyclone Safety Check
Once the cyclone has passed and it's safe to go outside:
- Inspect for Damage: Before reassembling or using your trampoline, thoroughly inspect all parts for any damage, such as bent frames, stretched springs, or torn mats.
- Clear Debris: Ensure the area around your trampoline's intended location is clear of any debris that may have accumulated during the storm.
Summary of Actions
| Storm Severity | Recommended Action | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Cyclone/Hurricane | Dismantle completely and move all components to a secure indoor location (garage, shed). | Anchors are insufficient. Safety is paramount. Acts as a projectile. |
| Strong Winds | Anchor securely with quality anchor kits. Consider partially dismantling (e.g., removing net/mat) if feasible. | Anchors provide some resistance but may not prevent all movement or damage. |
| Light to Moderate | Ensure anchors are in place (if used). Regularly check the trampoline's stability. | Less risk, but securing is still good practice to prevent minor shifts or tipping. |
By taking proactive steps and prioritizing indoor storage, you can protect your trampoline, your property, and ensure the safety of your community during a cyclone.
