Jumping into summer safety: Ald. Peter Burgelis introduces trampoline ordinance
MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- If you have plans to install a trampoline this summer – a new City of Milwaukee ordinance may require you to take extra safety precautions.
This was the picture Alderman Peter Burgelis received from a constituent that sparked a question about summer safety.
“We want kids to enjoy their summer not become a kid kebab,” said Burgelis. “They called and said I have a picket fence in my backyard; my next-door neighbor just put this trampoline up right next to it.”
It was just one conversation, Burgelis says but that’s when he noticed a bigger problem.
“The city just doesn’t have anything in place to prevent people from putting these in vulnerable or dangerous locations,” said Burgelis.
So, Burgelis got to writing. Nearly a month later, the city drafted an ordinance. The proposed ordinance would require residents to place trampolines without netting 15 feet away from a building or structure. Trampolines with netting must be placed five feet away from a building or structure. He says it’s a simple way to ensure summer safety for all.
“That’s why I’m here. If constituents have concerns, I’m their representative for city government,” said Burgelis.
The ordinance will go in front of the public safety and health committee, Thursday morning.