What should we do if the weather suddenly changes while using the bounce house?
Weather can be unpredictable, and even if you’ve planned your event around sunny skies, sudden changes can occur. When you’re operating a bounce house, the safety of the participants is the top priority, and changing weather conditions can introduce serious risks. At 3 Monkeys Inflatables, we follow strict safety protocols to ensure that our bounce houses are used safely, even in the event of unexpected weather changes.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to take if the weather suddenly changes while you’re using a bounce house. This includes what to do in cases of wind, rain, lightning, and extreme heat or cold, as well as the actions you should take to maintain safety.
Immediate Actions to Take for Different Weather Conditions
1. Strong Winds
One of the most dangerous weather conditions for a bounce house is strong wind. According to ASTM standards, bounce houses should not be used in wind speeds exceeding 15-20 mph. Winds at this speed can cause the bounce house to become unstable or even airborne, posing a serious risk to participants.
What to do if wind speeds increase suddenly:
- Turn off the blower immediately: Deflating the bounce house will prevent it from being lifted by the wind. Ensure that all children are safely removed from the inflatable before turning off the blower.
- Anchor the bounce house: If you’re expecting high winds, or if wind speeds suddenly increase, double-check that the bounce house is securely anchored using stakes at least 18 inches long and 1 inch in diameter, as per 3 Monkeys Inflatables guidelines. Even if the bounce house is deflated, it should remain securely anchored to avoid being blown away.
- Wait until the wind subsides: Do not re-inflate the bounce house until the wind speeds drop below 15 mph. For more information on handling wind, check out our article on What Weather Conditions Make a Bounce House Unsafe?.
2. Rain
Rain can create slippery surfaces on and around the bounce house, increasing the risk of falls and injuries. Moreover, water can damage the blower and other electrical components, posing an electrical hazard.
What to do if it starts raining:
- Turn off the blower: As soon as rain begins, turn off the blower and unplug it to prevent water from entering the motor and causing damage.
- Remove children from the bounce house: Ensure all participants exit the bounce house safely before deflation.
- Cover the blower: If rain is light and expected to pass quickly, cover the blower with a waterproof tarp to protect it from moisture. However, if the rain intensifies, do not use the inflatable until everything has dried completely.
- Dry out the bounce house: Once the rain stops, thoroughly dry the bounce house and blower before resuming use. For more tips on handling wet weather, visit our Weather Guidelines.
3. Lightning and Thunderstorms
Thunderstorms and lightning are incredibly dangerous when using electrical equipment like bounce house blowers. In these conditions, it’s critical to act quickly.
What to do if you see lightning or hear thunder:
- Shut down the bounce house immediately: Unplug the blower and turn off the bounce house at the first sign of lightning or thunder. Remove everyone from the inflatable, ensuring that no one is inside while it deflates.
- Seek shelter: Ensure all participants and staff move to a safe location, such as a building or vehicle, until the storm passes. Do not attempt to re-inflate the bounce house until at least 30 minutes after the last sign of lightning or thunder.
4. Extreme Heat
Excessive heat can also pose risks when using a bounce house. High temperatures can cause the surface of the inflatable to become very hot, increasing the risk of burns, dehydration, or heat exhaustion, particularly for younger children.
What to do in extreme heat:
- Monitor the temperature: Keep an eye on the bounce house surface. If it feels too hot to the touch, have the children take breaks from jumping to prevent overheating or burns.
- Provide shade: If possible, set up the bounce house in a shaded area, or create shade using tents or umbrellas to protect both the children and the inflatable.
- Hydration is key: Ensure children stay hydrated and take regular breaks, especially during the hottest part of the day. If the temperature exceeds 90°F, consider turning off the blower and deflating the bounce house to prevent heat-related injuries.
5. Cold Temperatures
In cold weather, the vinyl of the bounce house can become stiff, increasing the risk of punctures or damage.
What to do in cold weather:
- Monitor the temperature: If the temperature drops below 40°F, it’s best to stop using the bounce house, as the material can become brittle.
- Deflate the bounce house: If it gets too cold, turn off the blower and deflate the bounce house to protect it from potential damage.
General Safety Tips for Sudden Weather Changes
- Always Have a Plan: Before your event, familiarize yourself with the weather forecast. While it’s impossible to predict sudden changes, being prepared can help you act quickly. Set up the bounce house on stable, flat ground, and make sure it’s anchored securely using 18-inch stakes as required by 3 Monkeys Inflatables.
- Monitor the Weather Throughout the Event: Stay alert to changes in the weather, especially wind speeds. Keep a wind meter on hand if possible, and check it regularly to ensure the wind stays below the safe threshold of 15 mph.
- Follow Manufacturer and Local Guidelines: Be sure to follow the safety guidelines outlined by the manufacturer, ASTM standards, and your local regulations. At 3 Monkeys Inflatables, we provide clear instructions on how to safely operate inflatables in different weather conditions, ensuring both safety and compliance.
Conclusion
Weather can change quickly, but by following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your bounce house remains a safe and enjoyable activity for everyone. Whether it’s wind, rain, lightning, or extreme temperatures, knowing how to react swiftly and safely is essential. At 3 Monkeys Inflatables, we’re committed to providing our clients with the best safety advice and equipment for every situation.
For more information on bounce house safety, setup, and weather-related guidelines, contact 3 Monkeys Inflatables:
3 Monkeys Inflatables
Phone: (717) 650-7657
Email: info@3monkeysinflatables.com
Website: www.3monkeysinflatables.com
We’re here to help make your event safe, fun, and weather-proof!