Can a Bounce House Blow Away?
Yes, under certain conditions, a bounce house can blow away if it is not properly secured or if it is used in high winds. While bounce houses are designed to be fun and safe, they must be anchored and operated correctly to prevent them from being lifted off the ground by strong wind gusts. Inflatables like bounce houses have large surface areas that can catch the wind, making them susceptible to movement if safety guidelines are not followed.
In this article, we’ll explain the factors that can cause a bounce house to blow away, what to watch for, and how to prevent it from happening at your event.
What Causes a Bounce House to Blow Away?
There are two main factors that can cause a bounce house to blow away: improper anchoring and strong winds.
1. Improper Anchoring
Bounce houses must be anchored securely to the ground using stakes, sandbags, or other stabilizing equipment. If a bounce house is not properly anchored, even a light breeze can cause it to shift or tip over, and in stronger winds, the entire structure can be lifted off the ground.
- Weak Anchoring: Using too few anchors or improper anchors (like small or shallow stakes) can cause the bounce house to become unstable.
- Unstable Ground: If the bounce house is set up on soft or uneven ground, stakes may not hold securely, increasing the risk of the inflatable becoming airborne.
To prevent this, we recommend using 18-inch stakes that are 1 inch in diameter for grass setups. For setups on concrete or asphalt, use weighted sandbags or water barrels.
Learn more about how to secure your inflatable in our guide on How to Safely Anchor a Bounce House.
2. Strong Winds
Wind is one of the most dangerous factors when it comes to bounce houses. According to ASTM standards and 3 Monkeys Inflatables’ guidelines, bounce houses should not be operated in wind speeds exceeding 15-20 mph.
- Risk of Uplift: In strong winds, especially those over 20 mph, the inflatable can catch the wind like a sail. Even if anchored, the bounce house may become unstable and shift, or in extreme cases, be lifted into the air.
- Pop-Up Gusts: Even on a calm day, pop-up gusts can occur, especially in open areas. These sudden wind events can be dangerous, so always have an attendant monitor the weather and wind speed during use.
If you suspect wind speeds are getting too high, stop the use of the bounce house immediately. Turn off the blower and remove participants from the inflatable. For more information on how to manage inflatables in windy conditions, see our Wind Safety Guidelines.
How to Prevent a Bounce House from Blowing Away
While the possibility of a bounce house blowing away is real, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk and keep your event safe.
1. Always Anchor the Bounce House Properly
Before inflating the bounce house, make sure it is securely anchored to the ground using proper stakes or weights. Ensure that the stakes are driven deeply into the ground and check them periodically throughout the event to make sure they remain secure.
2. Monitor Weather Conditions
- Check the Forecast: If the forecast calls for strong winds or storms, avoid setting up a bounce house outdoors. It’s better to postpone the event or consider moving it indoors.
- Use a Wind Meter: Keep a portable wind meter on hand to monitor the wind speed. If winds exceed 15 mph, shut down the bounce house immediately.
3. Never Leave a Bounce House Unattended
Always have an attendant present to supervise the inflatable and monitor the weather. If winds pick up or the bounce house starts to shift, the attendant can act quickly to remove participants and deflate the unit.
For more tips on weather-related safety for bounce houses, read our article on What Weather Conditions Make a Bounce House Unsafe?.
What to Do If the Bounce House Starts to Move
If you notice that the bounce house is starting to shift or if the wind is picking up, here are the steps you should take:
- Remove Participants Immediately: Stop the activity and safely escort all participants out of the bounce house.
- Turn Off the Blower: Turning off the blower will cause the bounce house to deflate, reducing the risk of it being lifted by the wind.
- Reinforce Anchoring: If the wind calms down and it’s safe to continue using the bounce house, double-check that all stakes or weights are secure before re-inflating.
Conclusion: Safety First
While bounce houses can potentially blow away in high winds or if not properly anchored, following safety guidelines can greatly reduce the risk. At 3 Monkeys Inflatables, we prioritize safety and provide clear instructions on how to securely anchor bounce houses and monitor weather conditions to ensure a fun and safe experience for everyone.
If you have more questions about bounce house safety, feel free to contact us:
3 Monkeys Inflatables
Phone: (717) 650-7657
Email: info@3monkeysinflatables.com
Website: www.3monkeysinflatables.com
Related Articles
- How to Safely Anchor a Bounce House: Step-by-Step Guide
- What Weather Conditions Make a Bounce House Unsafe?
- Do Bounce Houses Use a Lot of Electricity?
- How to Dry a Bounce House After Rain
By following these safety measures, you can ensure that your bounce house remains secure, even in windy conditions. Let us help make your event safe and enjoyable with our detailed safety guidelines and expert advice!