Properly anchoring inflatables is crucial for safety and stability during use. Securing your inflatable with the right anchors ensures it stays firmly in place, even in windy conditions or high-traffic areas. Without proper anchoring, inflatables can shift, collapse, or become hazardous to users and bystanders. This guide is intended for the setup and anchoring of inflatables in outdoor environments, following best practices for safety and stability. Read on for a detailed, step-by-step process on how to properly anchor your inflatable.
Notice: Always adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines for the number and size of anchors required.
Step 1: Choose the Correct Anchors
- For outdoor use: Use metal stakes as anchors.
- For indoor use: Use sandbags.
Step 2: Identify Anchor Points
- Larger inflatables typically have both top and bottom anchor points.
- Anchor points can differ slightly depending on inflatable manufacturer. Typically Anchor points include a heavy duty webbing with a D-ring or O-ring at the end.
Step 3: Check for Underground Utilities
- Before driving stakes into the ground, consult local utility companies and homeowners to avoid hitting underground utilities or pipes.
- Contact 811: Visit Call 811 to learn more about your state-specific processes and laws for locating utilities.
Step 4: Position Bottom Anchor Point Stakes
- Position stakes approximately 3 feet away from the bottom anchor points.
Step 5: Drive Stakes Into the Ground
- Use a sledgehammer to securely drive stakes into the ground.
Step 6: Attach Tethers to Stakes
- Use tethers, preferably ratchet or cam buckle style, for easy adjustment.
- If you’ll be tying the tether to the stake, make sure to have 2–3 feet of webbing to work with.
- Loop the webbing two times around the top of the stake.
- Wrap the end of the webbing around the long tether three times.
- Insert the end of the webbing through the open hole and pull the webbing to tighten.
- Push the knot toward the stake to lock it in place.
- Finish by tying one more knot to tightly secure the tether.
Step 7: Secure Top Anchor Points
- Once all bottom anchor points are secured, proceed to secure the top anchor points, if applicable to your inflatable.
- Top anchor points should be positioned approximately 7 to 12 feet away from the inflatable.
- The goal is to have the tethers at a 50-degree vertical angle after the inflatable is fully inflated.
Step 8: Final Checks and Safety Measures
- After the inflatable is fully inflated, check for any loose or overtightened tethers and adjust as necessary.
- Place cones or delineator posts around all stakes to create a no-walk perimeter around the inflatable.
Your inflatable is now properly anchored!
As mentioned, proper anchoring is essential for the safety and stability of your inflatable. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you ensure a secure setup that minimizes risks and provides a safe environment for users. Always prioritize safety and take the time to anchor your inflatable correctly for a smooth and successful event!
For a detailed demonstration, please refer to our YouTube video tutorial:
For more detailed instructions and helpful tips, be sure to check out our ‘How to Videos’ section on our website.