Bounce House Rental: Safety, Space and Power Checklist

Bounce houses are the centerpiece of many kids' parties, family reunions and company picnics. They are also the rental with the most safety guidance, because wind, overcrowding and poor setup cause injuries. This guide helps you plan one properly in the Chicago area: how much room, what to ask the rental company and when to say no.

What the safety agencies say

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued guidance on inflatables. It reports that more than 18,000 bounce house injuries were treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments in 2018, and says maximum wind speed for use is in the range of 15 to 25 mph depending on the unit. CPSC's practical test is simple: if the tops of the trees are swaying, it may be too windy. It also advises to follow the manufacturer's setup instructions, stake or anchor the unit on flat ground, keep it away from tree branches, power lines and fences, let only children of similar size jump at once, never exceed maximum occupancy, and supervise children at all times.

Check your specific unit's manual and ask your rental company for its limits. The unit's own wind rating overrides any general number.

Space requirements

Bounce houses come in several sizes. These are typical, not rules; confirm the exact footprint.

Your plan area must be flat, clear of rocks, sticks, sprinklers and sharp objects, and large enough for a staging area where kids take off shoes. Leave at least a few feet on every side, plus room for the blower.

Power and blowers

Inflatables run on a continuous electric blower, often on a 120-volt outlet, with a generator for parks and fields. The rental company should tell you the draw and bring heavy-duty outdoor cords. Ask:

• How many amps does the blower use, and does it need its own circuit?
• Who supplies the generator and fuel, if one is needed?
• How are cords protected from trampling and water?
• Do the blower and generator sit behind a barrier so children cannot reach them?

Anchoring and ground

Stakes are common on grass; sandbags or weights are used on pavement. The rental company should state the number and type of anchors and set them up. Do not set up on a slope, wet clay or a surface with buried lines. Call JULIE (Illinois's one-call utility locator) if stakes will be driven into private property where buried utilities may exist, and check with your venue and village.

Supervision and rules

Post a rules sign near the entrance. Keep food and drinks away from the unit, and make sure parents know that adults are not supposed to bounce with kids unless the manufacturer allows it.

Insurance, permits and venue rules

Ask the rental company for a certificate of insurance, and ask your venue whether inflatables are allowed. Many park districts, forest preserves and condo associations have rules, and some villages require permits for inflatables on public property. Check with your village or park district. Illinois regulates amusement rides and some inflatables, so confirm that your vendor is a legitimate, licensed provider; ask them to explain how they comply. For seating and shade around the unit, see kids party rentals.

Round out your kids party plan

Book a free 15-minute seating call to plan tables, chairs and shade around the party, or request a quote.