Important Hammock Safety Tips

Summary: Adding a hammock to your backyard is a great idea because it gives you a special get-a-way space that is perfect for relaxing, reading a book, or just napping away. However, must owners of hammocks fail to consider the importance of safety when it comes to their hammock. Unfortunately, people are injured every year while using a hammock. This is almost always because of improper set-up or unintended use of the hammock. Hammocks have literally been around for over 10...

Adding a hammock to your backyard is a great idea because it gives you a special get-a-way space that is perfect for relaxing, reading a book, or just napping away. However, must owners of hammocks fail to consider the importance of safety when it comes to their hammock. Unfortunately, people are injured every year while using a hammock. This is almost always because of improper set-up or unintended use of the hammock. Hammocks have literally been around for over 1000 years. They aren't normally considered dangerous, but reasonable care and caution should always be a concern you have. There are instances when you need to be more careful than not. Setting up the hammock When you are assembling your hammock, be sure to follow all directions carefully. Do not try and do things your own way or "rig" the hammock by any other means than indicated. If the hammock is not properly assembled or secured, it can be a risk to yourself or anyone else who may lay on it. Safety for Children Children should never be allowed to use a hammock without parental supervision. Small children have been known to fall or even become tangled in the hammock. If a child does become tangled in the hammock, they have a hard time freeing themselves and sometimes the hammock can even end up tangled around their neck resulting in choking. It is very important to make it clear to your children that the hammock is not a toy because they can be unstable and unsafe. Inform them that they should not jump on, or swing fast on them and always be sure to have an adult nearby before using the hammock. Make sure the Hammock is Secure You should always check to make sure all connections are secure and not showing any signs of fraying or ware. Also, be sure to check the ropes of the hammock to make sure that they still look strong and durable. General Use While using the hammock, do not make sudden movements, instead make slow movements and this will decrease your chances of falling from the hammock. Also, be sure nothing that you are wearing could get caught in the hammock such as jewelry, pins, or any other similar item. Once again, hammocks are not overall dangerous, but proper care and use need to be a part of your hammock usage because injuries can occur. Be safe and relax!