Britons face a garden safety alert this Easter weekend as Storm Dave approaches, bringing winds up to 70mph across the UK. The Met Office has released several yellow weather warnings for wind, with the storm set to intensify rapidly from the west starting Saturday afternoon, April 4.

Trampoline and Outdoor Gear Risks

Garden trampolines and play equipment stand highly vulnerable during high winds, potentially turning into hazardous projectiles even at speeds as low as 40mph. Unsecured items risk flipping, damaging sheds, cars, fences, or getting stuck in trees, roads, or railway tracks.

Alex Price, product manager for outdoor toys, explained: “People often underestimate how little wind it takes to shift a trampoline. Speeds above 40-50mph can lift unsecured models, particularly when gusts catch under the mat like a sail.”

He continued: “Sudden gusts, rather than steady winds, pose the main threat, lifting trampolines across gardens or over fences. Play structures like climbing frames and swings remain stable when properly installed for normal use, but stormy conditions demand extra precautions to prevent mishaps.”

Real-Life Storm Damage Story

A mother using the social media handle @motherhoodandmegs recounted a recent incident: “A storm hit last night, and our trampoline vanished. My daughter thought it was stolen and was heartbroken. It ended up in a neighbor’s garden, startling an elderly lady. Thankfully, my dad helped retrieve it this morning.”

Essential Tips to Protect Garden Equipment

Anchors and Ground Fixes

Ground anchor kits provide top security, screwing into soil and strapping to frames. Without kits, use heavy tent pegs, dog stakes, or ropes tied to fences, decking, or trees.

Leverage Garden Features

Site trampolines near windbreaks like fences, hedges, sheds, or walls. Lay larger items sideways against barriers during gusts. Store lighter gear in garages or sheds.

Net and Accessory Management

Remove safety nets in storms, as they catch wind like sails. Alternatively, lower poles or tie netting tightly. Secure loose parts like ladders, covers, seats, and goals with cords, ties, or weights such as sandbags and bricks.

Monitor Ground and Conditions

Post-rain, soft soil weakens anchors—recheck stakes, tighten straps, and add slabs or sandbags at bases for stability.