An 8-year-old boy miraculously survived being thrown 20 feet into the air by a strong gust of wind while jumping on a trampoline, leaving his parents shaken but grateful for their son’s survival.
An 8-year-old boy from Utah miraculously survived after being thrown 20 feet into the air by a strong gust of wind while jumping on a trampoline. The incident, which occurred last week during a family visit to relatives in St. George, has left his parents shaken but grateful for their son’s survival.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, over 100,000 children are treated in emergency rooms each year for trampoline-related injuries.
The most common injuries include broken bones, head trauma, and concussions.
Trampolines can be a fun and recreational activity, but they also pose a significant risk to children's safety.
In the United States, trampoline accidents account for over 7,500 emergency room visits annually.
The risk of injury is highest among children under the age of 16.
As Jake Smith was bouncing on the trampoline, a sudden and heavy gust of wind lifted him and the entire structure 20 feet into the air. According to his mother, Shellie Smith, her son ‘flew up over two cinder block walls and curved around and then landed in the street.‘ The incident happened quickly, without warning, leaving Jake with only a slight concussion and minor scratches.
Fortunately, Jake’s parents were able to rush him to the hospital, where he received treatment for his injuries. The family has since learned a valuable lesson about trampoline safety. ‘Strap them down — they’re just like giant kites,‘ said Brian Smith, Jake’s father. The family now plans to ensure that their trampolines are securely bolted to the ground before use.
To minimize trampoline-related injuries, ensure proper installation and maintenance. Trampolines should be placed at least 6 feet away from any obstacles or structures. Soft landing surfaces, such as wood chips or rubber mulch, can reduce fall impact. Users should jump one at a time, with a spotter present to provide assistance if needed. 'Users should always be aware of their surroundings while using the trampoline.' Trampoline users under 6 years old should be accompanied by an adult. Regular inspections can help identify potential hazards and prevent accidents.
The incident highlights the importance of trampoline safety. According to a 2022 article from the Mayo Clinic, over 800,000 children in the U.S. have had trampoline injuries between 2009 and 2018. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that trampolines be used only under adult supervision and that they be securely attached to the ground.
Jake, who is now recovering from his accident, has a newfound appreciation for safety. ‘I’m gonna say, ‘Is yours bolted down?’‘ he told NBC affiliate KSL in an interview. His parents are also more vigilant about trampoline safety, ensuring that their home trampolines are securely attached to the ground before use.
For the Smith family, the incident was a close call that could have ended in tragedy. However, thanks to the quick thinking and action of hospital staff, Jake is now recovering at home. His mother, Shellie Smith, expressed her gratitude for the angels who ‘caught him.‘ ‘There were angels protecting my little boy, because they caught him,‘ she said.
