What to Do When It Rains on Bounce House Day?
Planning a special event with kids often involves exciting entertainment options, and one popular choice is a bounce house. These inflatable play structures are a hit at birthdays, festivals, and family gatherings, offering hours of fun and active play. However, one element that can quickly derail the day’s plans is the weather. Specifically, rain can create complications when you’re trying to enjoy a bounce house outdoors. But what exactly happens if it rains on bounce house day? Let’s explore the options, safety concerns, and how to handle the situation effectively.
The Best Bounce Houses: Are They Suitable for All Weather?
When planning an outdoor event with a bounce house, it’s crucial to choose one that’s both fun and safe for the occasion. The best bounce houses are made from durable materials and are designed to withstand various weather conditions to some extent. However, despite their robust construction, no inflatable structure is completely weatherproof.
Many bounce house providers recommend setting them up in dry, sunny conditions for optimal enjoyment and safety. If it rains, the surface of the bounce house can become slippery, leading to a higher risk of falls or accidents. Additionally, excess water can cause the structure to lose stability and become unsafe for use.
What Happens If It Rains During Your Event?
- Water Damage to the Bounce House
Most bounce houses are designed for outdoor use and are constructed from materials that can handle brief exposure to light rain. However, if the rain is heavy or prolonged, water can quickly pool inside the bounce house, which could damage the inflatable structure. The weight of water in the bounce house can cause it to deflate or collapse, potentially harming the children playing inside.
Inflatable providers typically ensure their units are designed to handle some moisture. However, when a bounce house is exposed to excess rain, it’s vital to address the situation immediately to avoid damage. Most companies will advise against using the bounce house in wet conditions, especially if it’s showing signs of water accumulation inside.
- Slippery Surfaces Pose Safety Risks
Even if the bounce house doesn’t collapse, the interior surface can become dangerously slippery in the rain. The wet surface not only reduces the fun but also creates a slip hazard. Children jumping, sliding, or bouncing around may lose their footing, leading to falls and injuries. Safety should always be a priority, so it’s essential to monitor weather forecasts closely and make decisions based on the severity of rain.
- Decreased Stability of the Bounce House
Bounce houses are typically tethered to the ground to prevent them from moving during use. While this setup can keep the bounce house stable in light wind, the combination of wet ground and heavy rain can compromise its stability. With wet conditions, the surface might become muddy or slick, causing the bounce house to shift or become uneven. As a result, the risk of injury increases, and the fun factor significantly decreases.
How to Prepare for Rainy Weather
- Monitor the Weather Forecast
Before committing to an outdoor event with a bounce house, keep an eye on the weather forecast in the days leading up to the event. If rain is predicted, it’s essential to have a contingency plan in place. Some companies offer waterproof or covered bounce houses, which may provide extra protection in case of light showers. However, if heavy rain or thunderstorms are expected, it’s best to reschedule the event or consider an indoor venue.
- Set Up Under a Tent or Shelter
To reduce the risk of rain affecting your bounce house, consider setting it up under a large tent or gazebo. These structures can help shield the bounce house from light rain, allowing children to continue playing safely. Ensure that the shelter is large enough to cover both the bounce house and the surrounding area to avoid wet conditions on the ground. However, this approach may not work well for heavy downpours or strong winds.
- Timing is Key
If your event is scheduled for a day with a forecast of intermittent rain, it may be best to set up the bounce house during dry periods. This way, children can enjoy it while the weather is favourable. However, it’s essential to have an exit plan ready in case the weather takes a turn for the worse during the event.
What Should You Do If It Starts Raining?
If the rain begins unexpectedly, it’s crucial to act quickly to ensure everyone’s safety. The first step is to stop using the bounce house immediately. If possible, remove the children from the bounce house and bring them indoors. Many bounce house rental companies provide instructions for dealing with inclement weather, so make sure to follow their advice for the best course of action.
- Deflate the Bounce House
Most inflatable providers will advise deflating the bounce house if the rain is significant or persistent. This prevents water from accumulating inside and damaging the structure. It also reduces the risk of the bounce house becoming unstable. Inflatable bounce houses can usually be deflated quickly, and this process should be carried out by an experienced professional to ensure safety.
- Keep an Eye on Wind Conditions
Rain isn’t the only concern during outdoor events. Wind can be a significant hazard for bounce houses. In strong winds, even a well-secured bounce house can be blown over, causing injury to those inside. Always monitor both wind and rain conditions, and be prepared to deflate the bounce house if wind speeds exceed safe limits.
- Reschedule or Relocate the Event
If the rain continues, and the bounce house cannot be safely used, consider rescheduling the event for another day. If your event cannot be postponed, and an indoor space is available, relocate the entertainment to a dry area. You might even explore indoor venues that offer bounce house rentals or similar entertainment alternatives.
Renting a Bounce House: Tips for Handling Weather Conditions
When planning to rent a bounce house, it’s essential to factor in weather conditions and ensure you have a solid backup plan. Many rental companies will include clauses in their contracts about how weather conditions will be handled. Here are some tips to help you navigate this situation:
- Discuss weather policies with the rental company: Understand the company’s approach to inclement weather. Some may offer the option to reschedule, while others may charge a cancellation fee. Clarifying these details in advance can save you headaches later on.
- Check for cancellation policies: Ensure you are familiar with any cancellation policies that may be in place due to weather-related issues. Some companies offer free cancellation in the event of severe weather, while others may charge a fee if you cancel last minute.
- Set up in a sheltered location: If you’re renting a bounce house for an outdoor event, look for areas that offer natural or artificial cover to reduce exposure to rain.
In conclusion, while bounce houses are a fantastic addition to any event, it’s important to consider the weather when planning your outdoor gathering. Rain can pose various risks to the safety of your event, including water damage to the inflatable structure, slippery surfaces, and decreased stability. By monitoring weather forecasts, preparing for potential rain, and understanding your bounce house rental company’s policies, you can ensure your event is safe, enjoyable, and memorable. If bad weather disrupts your plans, you can always consider renting a bounce house for another day when the weather is more cooperative.