The first, and most, obvious issue is to take care about support. It's important to ensure that ropes don't get frayed or weak and that the points where they attach to the bed and the hooks are strong. The supports themselves, whether tree, post or stand should be strong too.
But given that it can sometimes be hard to tell when something is about to break, always treat the hammock as something of an unpredictable animal. Enter gradually, change position slowly and exit carefully. Practice the proper technique. Put a hand on each side of the hammock when getting in and spread the material. Then sit as you would in a chair and move your legs in. Reverse the procedure getting out.
Keep the area around the hammock clear, so that if a support does give way and dump you on the ground, nothing is around to do major harm. Don't hang the hammock over large tree roots if you can help it. Don't set glasses underneath or nearby - use a cupholder accessory instead. The first few times, while you're still testing and getting familiar with using it, have a mattress or pad underneath to cushion any fall.
When you hang the hammock, consider using spreader bars
. Some hammocks are designed to accommodate them, others won't. These are metal or wooden cylinders that thread through or attach to the hammock to make the bed more of a rectangle than the traditional banana shape.While no miracle cure, changing the shape of the surface has a number of effects. Since it's flatter, children and the infirm are much less likely to get wrapped up in the hammock. That makes them easier to get in and out of, and makes getting "swallowed up" less likely. It's still possible to roll off, but it's almost impossible, then, to get cocooned if the bed rotates around the ropes.
More generally, any risk associated with hammock use is larger where children and the infirm are concerned. Supervision is important in those cases. The elderly, someone recovering from an illness or operation, or those too young to be strong or wise enough to use a hammock properly will all need a little assistance.
For anyone of any age using a hammock, it's important to keep the hammock itself free of anything that could produce illness. Mildew, mold spores and other organisms often make their way onto the bedding material, especially if it's often left outside in the morning dew. The user's face is often near organisms that can cause respiratory problems. A simple spray
can help eliminate the problem.But hammocks have inherent risks, too. Since they're not firm pliable mattresses, they can present neck or back problems. Though Brazilian hammocks
are less stretchable than the Mayan design
, both (and other types, too) can produce discomfort over time. Those prone to neck or back problems should take proper precautions.But used wisely, a hammock can provide a relaxing and pleasurable experience like no other. Not for nothing do those lying in one have smiles on their faces.
