When safely setting up a bounce house, properly anchoring the unit is crucial. We’ve all seen a tragic video clip of a bounce house blowing across a field that the operator failed to securely install. Leaving a unit unanchored – you just wouldn’t do that!
Stakes are the most common anchoring tool, but with sizes ranging from 18 to 24+ inches they pose a safety threat as well – to utility lines. Learn how easy it is to prevent damaging a water, electric, gas, or other buried line, for free, with this post.
Know What’s Below – Call 811 Before You Anchor
You can dial 811 from anywhere in the country to setup a free flagging of all utility lines. Check out their state map for local details – in some states you can request the appointment at your convenience with an online form! All of this info is available on the state map.
The Process
Notify your local utility (via 811) 2-3 days before the reservation date. Then you wait – they will add that location to their route and flag all utility lines for you. Respect the marks – that means avoid the spots where flags are when staking down a unit!
Do You Really Need to Call?
Erosion and root system growth can push utility line up, down, and across a yard – you could strike a gas or internet line within just a few inches. Even if you’ve setup at that property before, lines could have shifted since your last event at that address.
It’s better to be prepared than trying to stop up a busted water main. While a phone call to make an appointment may take a few minutes, it is preferable to the hours spent recovering from a broken utility line.
Best Practices – Reduce Risk!
You don’t want to become a statistic! Here are some steps for staying out of trouble with the utility company
- Ask your customers about buried lines in their yard when arranging the reservation.
- Let your customer know that you will be requesting the utility company to come flag your yard – free of charge!
- On Mondays, prepare for your upcoming weekend rentals. Call 811 or go online and schedule an appointment for each rental setup.
- Allow the utility company 2-3 days before your reservation to ensure they are able to fulfill the scheduled appointment.
- When you setup, avoid the flags! Make sure to clear the anchor points where you are staking by at least one foot from the nearest flag.
Exceptional customer service is what makes Space Walk the inflatable rental company of choice across the country. This extra step of preparation will not only save you from a potential headache, it will show off your exceptional service and professional insight!