Renting a bounce house is a fantastic way to add excitement and joy to any children’s party. However, to ensure that the fun is safe and uninterrupted, certain preparations are necessary before the bounce house arrives at your house. This article provides a comprehensive guide on the essential steps customers should take to prepare for a successful bounce house rental.

Understanding the Importance of Preparation

The allure of a bounce house at a children’s party is undeniable, but it comes with the responsibility of ensuring safety and functionality. Proper preparation can prevent accidents, damage to property, and can even save time during setup. It’s not just about clearing space; it’s about creating an environment where children can enjoy themselves without risk.

Step 1: Choose the Appropriate Location

Selecting the right spot for the bounce house is crucial. It needs to be a flat, open space, preferably on grass, as it provides a natural cushion. Avoid slopes and ensure the area is free from overhead obstacles like branches or power lines. The location should also be close to a power source since bounce houses require a continuous supply of electricity to stay inflated.

Step 2: Clear the Space of Debris

Before the bounce house arrives, thoroughly clean the designated area. Remove garden furniture, toys, and other objects that could obstruct setup or pose a safety hazard. It’s essential to check for and remove smaller items like rocks, sticks, and especially sharp objects that could puncture the bounce house or injure children.

Step 3: Remove Sharp Stones and Hazardous Objects

Pay special attention to the ground where the bounce house will be placed. Remove sharp stones, broken glass, and any hazardous objects. These items can not only damage the bounce house but also pose serious safety risks to children playing inside.

Step 4: Address Pet-Related Concerns

If you have pets, ensure that the area is free from pet waste, which is not only unpleasant but also a health hazard. Consider setting up a temporary barrier or keeping pets away from the area before and during the event.

Step 5: Ensure Accessibility for Setup

Ensure that there is a clear path from the street to the setup area. This means removing any obstacles that could hinder the delivery and setup of the bounce house, such as vehicles, garden hoses, or any large debris.

Step 6: Check for Underground Utilities

If stakes are required to anchor the bounce house, it’s important to ensure that there are no underground utilities like gas, water, or electrical lines where the stakes will be driven. Contact local utility companies for assistance if unsure.

Step 7: Prepare an Electrical Source

Since bounce houses require an electric blower to stay inflated, ensure there is an accessible power source near the setup location. If the nearest power source is too far away, you will need an appropriate extension cord. Check with the rental company about the power requirements beforehand.

Step 8: Consider Weather Conditions

Keep an eye on the weather forecast leading up to the event. Bounce houses are not safe during high winds or lightning storms. Have a backup plan, like a community center or indoor hall, in case of inclement weather.

Step 9: Plan for Safety

Set up safety rules for the bounce house use, like no shoes, no sharp objects, no food or drinks, and supervising the number of kids using it at a time. Post these rules near the bounce house or brief parents and children upon their arrival.

Step 10: Organize a Supervision Schedule

Ensure continuous adult supervision when the bounce house is in use. It’s often helpful to create a supervision schedule among attending adults to maintain constant vigilance without burdening one individual throughout the event.

Step 11: Consider Hygiene

In light of health concerns, especially post-pandemic, consider setting up a hand sanitizing station near the bounce house. Encourage children to sanitize their hands before and after playing in the bounce house.

Step 12: Think About Flooring and Matting

For added safety, consider placing protective matting or soft flooring around the entrance and exit of the bounce house. This can help prevent injuries from slips or falls on harder surfaces.

Step 13: Communicate with the Rental Company

Before the party, communicate with the bounce house rental company regarding any specific instructions or requirements. Confirm the delivery time, setup process, and ask any last-minute questions you might have.

Step 14: Prepare for Emergencies

Have a first aid kit ready for minor injuries and establish a plan for handling emergencies. Know how to quickly deflate the bounce house if necessary and have emergency contact numbers readily available.

Step 15: After-Party Considerations

Plan for the deflation and pickup of the bounce house. Ensure the area is cleared again for the pickup process, and inspect the bounce house for any damage or lost items before the rental company arrives.

Conclusion

Preparing for a bounce house rental involves more than just clearing space; it requires thoughtful consideration of safety, logistics, and hygiene. By following these steps, customers can ensure a safe, enjoyable, and hassle-free experience with their bounce house rental. The key is in the details – taking care of these aspects not only ensures the safety and enjoyment of the children but also the peace of mind of the parents, making the party a memorable success.