Safety concerns raised over home jumping castle setups

With the winter school holidays on the horizon, and the likelihood that children will soon be restless with extra time on their hands, many parents may be planning to set up jumping castles in their backyards to keep them entertained – especially during birthday celebrations.What better way to help them burn off all that energy?

But a recent incident has reminded parents to think twice about safety. On May 31, 2025, two young children were swept into the air by strong winds while inside a jumping castle at Protearif Laerskool in Krugersdorp.

A shocking TikTok video of the moment went viral, showing the inflatable being lifted skyward and the children tumbling through the air. The clip sparked a wave of reactions from social media users across South Africa, with many expressing relief that both children were not too badly injured.

Meanwhile, according to recent statistics, hundreds of children are injured each year in jumping castle-related accidents, with many incidents attributed to improper setup, inadequate supervision, and faulty equipment.

Some of the key safety concerns associated with home jumping castle setups include:

• Inadequate anchoring can cause the castle to tip over or be lifted by strong winds
• Overcrowding, which can lead to collisions and injuries
• Lack of supervision, which can result in children using the castle unsupervised and increase the risk of accidents

There are some suggested tip for improved saftey:

• Limit the number of children using the castle at one time
• Inspect the castle for signs of wear and tear before use
• Avoid use during strong winds or rain.

To further minimise the risks, safety experts recommend that homeowners follow the manufacturer's instructions for setup and use, ensure that the castle is securely anchored, and provide adequate supervision at all times.

But what if the wind picks up and starts to lift a jumping castle?

1. Evacuate immediately: Clear the area and ensure everyone's safety.

2. Secure or deflate: If possible, quickly deflate or secure the castle.

3. Follow manufacturer's instructions: Refer to the manufacturer's emergency procedures.

4. Check for damage: Inspect the castle for damage before reuse.

5. Wait for calm conditions: Only reinflate or reuse when weather conditions are safe.

It should come as no surprise that in light of these safety concerns, many are calling for stricter regulations around the setup and use of jumping castles at home.

However, one doesn't have to let the air out of the childrens' fun completely. Simple common sense does wonders, and by prioritising safety and taking the necessary precautions, parents can help ensure that their children have a fun and safe experience with jumping castles.