*EDITOR’S NOTE: The EPSB spokesman initially told Global News trampolines were not included in the inflatables ban. However, on July 12, the district clarified most were, in fact, included.
Citing safety concerns, the Edmonton Public School Board (EPSB) is banning all inflatables, including structures like bouncy castles.
Just over one year ago, a wind storm flipped an inflatable obstacle course at Victoria School of the Arts. Several students suffered minor injuries.
READ MORE: Edmonton Public Schools investigating after students injured by inflatable obstacle course
Since then, there have been other high-profile incidents around the world.
“It’s certainly a safety concern arising out of an incident that happened at Edmonton Public Schools but that is only one of the reasons,” Lorne Parker, EPSB Asst. Supt., said. “We have been looking at the use of these devices in other jurisdictions and looking at what these jurisdictions are doing in terms of ensuring the safety of students.
“We reached the conclusion that the best way is to ban them outright.”
EPSB said trampolines are included in the ban with the exception of mini trampolines and similar devices, “when recommended by a qualified professional (such as an occupational or physical health therapist) and used for special education purposes.”
READ MORE: High winds send inflatable castle flying at children’s birthday party in Mexico
Any device that has a mechanized blower to inflate it is included in the ban. Schools and any groups that rent school sites for other events are included.
“The ban applies to any use on school property whether it’s an extra curricular during school hours or use by an external agency,” Parker explained.
It came into effect in June and was communicated to all schools in the district.
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