When planning an event with a commercial grade bounce house, one thing that often gets overlooked is the effect of wind on bounce houses. While bounce houses are fun and popular, it’s important to know the risks involved, especially when the wind picks up. So, what happens if the wind is too strong for a bounce house?
In this blog, we’ll dive into bounce house wind safety, and explore what happens when the wind becomes a danger, how to ensure safety, and why it’s crucial to secure bounce houses properly, especially during windy conditions. Let’s jump in!
The wind is a factor that can easily turn an exciting bounce house experience into a dangerous situation. While most bounce house companies take precautions to secure their bounce houses, it’s still essential for the person renting the equipment to understand the risks that come with windy weather.
If the wind picks up too much, a commercial grade bounce house can easily be knocked over or even lifted off the ground. This can cause injuries to anyone inside and damage the bounce house itself. The consequences can be serious, so it’s important to know what happens if the wind is too strong for a bounce house before setting one up.
If the wind is too strong, several things can happen to a bounce house:
Tipping Over: Even if it’s tethered down, strong wind gusts can cause the bounce house to tip over, leading to injuries to anyone inside. A tilted bounce house is no longer a safe structure.
Deflation: Wind can interfere with the bounce house’s airflow. If the wind is too strong or gusty, it can disrupt the airflow system, causing the bounce house to deflate unexpectedly, and leaving the participants in a potentially dangerous situation.
Lift-off: In the worst-case scenario, if the bounce house is not secured properly and the wind is strong enough, it can actually lift off the ground. This is a rare occurrence, but when it happens, it’s extremely dangerous. Securing heavy-duty bouncy castles in the wind is crucial to avoid this risk.
It’s important to know that not all winds are dangerous. However, if the wind speed exceeds 20-25 mph, you’re getting into risky territory. This is generally considered the safe wind speed for bounce houses. Anything stronger can cause the problems we’ve talked about.
If you’re planning an event and there’s a forecast of winds near or above 25 mph, it’s best to consider alternative arrangements. Even a commercial grade bounce house can be susceptible to damage or injury in those conditions. Always err on the side of caution.
When setting up a bounce house, safety is key, especially when it comes to securing it against the wind. Here’s what you need to do to keep things safe:
Check the weather: Always check the weather before your event to see if winds are expected to be strong. This will help you make the right decision about setting up or moving forward with the bounce house rental.
Secure with anchors: Always make sure to anchor the bounce house properly using heavy-duty stakes, sandbags, or tie-downs. These will help prevent the bounce house from being lifted or moved by the wind. Most bounce house companies will provide the necessary equipment, but double-check with them to ensure everything is in place.
Avoid placing bounce houses near obstructions: Stay away from trees, fences, or other structures that might catch the wind and cause the bounce house to sway or become unbalanced. Place it in an open, flat area where the wind can flow freely, and the bounce house is unlikely to get knocked around.
Monitor the conditions: Once your event starts, keep an eye on the weather throughout the day. If the wind starts to pick up, it’s important to act fast and take the bounce house down or move it to a safer spot. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
There are a few additional tips for securing bounce houses in the wind:
Use extra anchors: If you’re expecting gusty winds or a storm, consider using extra ground anchors or sandbags. Adding a few more will provide added stability and make the bounce house even safer.
Check for damage: Before setting up the bounce house, inspect it for any damage or wear and tear that could make it less secure. If you notice any issues, contact the bounce house company immediately and avoid using the equipment.
Inflate fully: Make sure the bounce house is fully inflated before allowing children or adults to enter. A fully inflated bounce house is much more stable than one that is under-inflated.
Be prepared to take it down: If the weather conditions suddenly change, and the wind starts to become too strong, be ready to take the bounce house down quickly. It’s always a good idea to have a backup plan, whether that’s relocating the event indoors or having some alternative entertainment on hand.
If you’re already in the middle of an event, and the wind starts to pick up, follow these steps:
Monitor the bounce house: Keep an eye on the bounce house and the wind conditions. If you notice any issues, like it tilting or the airflow being disrupted, stop the activity immediately.
Move guests to safety: If you feel that the bounce house may be in danger of tipping over or flying away, get everyone out immediately. Move guests to a safer location until the wind dies down.
Take the bounce house down: If the wind continues to increase, it’s better to err on the side of caution and take the bounce house down. Most bounce house companies will advise you to take it down if the wind is at a dangerous level.
If you’re considering renting a low-cost bounce house, choosing the right bounce house company is essential. Look for one that provides high-quality equipment and has experience with outdoor events. A good company will have clear safety guidelines for dealing with bounce house wind safety and will help you ensure that your event is as safe as possible.
Hero Kiddo specializes in providing durable and high-quality bounce houses that are built to withstand tough conditions, including wind. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a larger event, we’ll help you find the right bounce house for your needs and give you the guidance you need to keep it safe and secure.
Ready to make your next event a hit? Contact Hero Kiddo today, and let us help you choose the best bounce house for your party, ensuring it stays safe and fun—no matter the wind.
