Bouncy castles sending dozens of kids to Montreal Children’s Hospital each year

People lay stuffed animals at a memorial for a three-year-old girl who died in a bouncy castle-related incident in LaSalle. (The Canadian Press)

Bouncy castles are a staple of summer fun, but the Montreal Children’s Hospital says the inflatable structures are also landing children to the emergency room.

Trauma director Debbie Friedman says the hospital treats about 50 children each year for bouncy castle-related injuries.

“The injuries can include different types of fractures, concussions, neck, spine injuries, abrasions, lacerations, dental trauma, facial trauma,” she said.

Friedman adds children between the ages of two and 10 are the most vulnerable.

She is now calling for rules around inflatable structures.

“There needs to be regulations and guidance as to … are they safe to use, and if they’re safe to use, how do you make them safe,” said Friedman.

Daniel Zakarian, director of Kloda Events, an inflatables company, agrees with the hospital’s call for change.

“The industry needs some sort of standardization of regulations. We’re lacking,” said Zakarian.

The calls for tighter oversight come weeks after the death of Ava Ciampini. The three-year-old was jumping in a bouncy castle in LaSalle when strong winds swept the structure several feet into the air before it hit the ground.

Ten other people were injured in the incident.

The Quebec coroner’s office is investigating the death and could issue safety recommendations as a result.

Both the hospital and Zakarian say they are hoping the investigation leads to stronger industry-wide standards.

“This needs to be a priority in public safety,” said Friedman.