How to Properly Set Up Your Inflatable Football Tunnel
Obtain Necessary Permits
The first step is ensuring you have permission from the relevant authorities. If you plan to set up custom inflatables at an event or in a public area, obtaining permits is crucial. Doing so helps you avoid potential conflicts or disruptions that could impact your event.
Prepare the Site
Once your permits are in hand, it's time to prepare the area. This involves thoroughly cleaning and inspecting the site. Make sure to remove debris and any sharp objects, such as:
- Sharp stones or pebbles
- Wooden sticks or tree roots
- Loose metal fragments
Once the site is clear of these hazards, you're ready to move forward.
Inflate the Football Tunnel
Next, spread out your inflatable tunnel on the ground, taking note of the anchor points, zippers, and blower openings. Attach the blower securely to the inflation tube, ensuring it's tight, and close all velcro openings and zippers.
Some inflatable football tunnels are made in two sections, with separate inflation tubes for the helmet and the tunnel itself. Make sure to check both areas if this applies to your setup.
Monitor Air Pressure
Ensuring proper air pressure is key when inflating custom tunnels. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the correct air pressure and any additional filling materials needed.
Secure the Tunnel to the Ground
Once the tunnel is fully inflated, the next important step is to anchor it securely. This prevents the inflatable from shifting or moving due to weather or other external conditions. You definitely don’t want the tunnel blowing away during a gust of wind!
How to Safely Take Down Your Inflatable Football Tunnel
Inspect the Tunnel
Before beginning the takedown process, inspect the inflatable to make sure there are no foreign objects or materials inside or around it. This includes stakes, flagging, and weight bags. If needed, you can also sweep or vacuum the entrance. Ensure that everyone is clear from the inflatable before deflating.
Power Down the Blower
Once inspected, turn off the blower and disconnect it from the tunnel. Open all zippers and velcro flaps to allow air to escape. Depending on the size of the tunnel, deflation can take anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes.
Fold the Inflatable
Start by folding the sides of the tunnel inward, about 2 to 3 feet from the seams at the bottom. Make sure to tuck all the colorful designs inside the folds. Continue folding until only a narrow section remains, leaving enough space for air to escape as you fold. You can also step on the inflatable to push out any remaining air.
Roll the Tunnel
As you begin rolling, tuck in the rope or strap that will be used to secure the tunnel. This saves you from having to lift the entire structure later. Start rolling from the end farthest from the blower port, and keep the roll tight for easier handling. A loose roll can make the tunnel harder to move and pack.
Secure and Pack the Tunnel
Once fully rolled, tuck in the blower ports and tie off the inflatable with a rope or strap. Then, place it in an upright position and pull the storage bag over it from the top. Rotate the bag into an upright position, ready for transport.
Safety Tips for Inflatable Football Tunnels
Keep Sharp Objects at a Distance
Inflatable tunnels are pressurized with air, making them vulnerable to damage from sharp or rough materials. Ensure that no sharp objects are nearby and avoid using overly tight fastenings, as these could damage the structure.
Avoid Overloading the Tunnel
To maintain the integrity of your inflatable, do not exceed the recommended weight or pressure limits provided by the manufacturer. Excess pressure can weaken the tunnel and increase the risk of damage.
Ensure Adult Supervision
If children are present, such as at youth sporting events, always supervise the use of inflatable tunnels. Inflatables are naturally attention-grabbing, so it’s crucial that an adult is monitoring their use to ensure safety.
Secure Necessary Permits
Before using inflatable sports tunnels in public spaces, obtain any required permits. This includes permissions related to the use of logos, branding, or advertising displayed on the inflatable.
Maintain Proper Air Pressure
Keep a close eye on the air pressure during the inflation process. Overfilling the tunnel could lead to ruptures, creating a potential safety hazard.
Important Note: Always be mindful of weather conditions when setting up inflatable tunnels.
- Strong winds (over 20 mph) can cause your inflatable to become airborne, leading to damage.
- Rain can severely harm the structure.
- Excessive heat may degrade the PVC or soft rubber material that forms the inflatable’s exterior.
Lastly, be sure to keep chemicals, fire hazards, and animals away from your inflatable tunnel to prevent unnecessary damage or accidents.