All posts by sfbadmin

Best Places to See the Fall Foliage

When Mother Nature changes her colors to autumn splendor, people race to experience the reds, yellows, and oranges of fall. Many people don’t think of Florida as a hotspot of autumn color, but there are definitely locations where individuals can go to view fall foliage.

Florida’s changing colors can arrive as late as November due to the warmer climate. The Sunshine State displays her colors when other states are past their peak. It’s possible to discover pockets of spectacular fall foliage by taking a drive along rural roads.

Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park

Revel in the fall foliage that surrounds the sapphire waters of one of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world. The lake is home to alligators, manatees, and a diverse abundance of wildlife. Colors can be viewed from a diving platform or by riverboat.

Falling Waters State Park

Visitors can view the highest waterfall in Florida – that’s actually a sinkhole – framed by the vivid colors of autumn. There’s an access path and viewing platform.

Morningside Nature Center

In addition to autumn colors, there’s a multitude of fall-blooming wildflowers to view.

Three Rivers State Park

Maples are well known for their intense fall colors. Pockets of brilliantly colored maples and oaks clothed in red, yellow and orange are a stunning contrast to the pines that grow among them. Viewing can be done by hiking trail or by cruising the lake.

Torreya State Park

The park is a favorite for fall colors and features maples, sourwood, and sweetgum. Taking the Weeping Ridge Trail, visitors can view the foliage and the park’s waterfall. The park is also home to rare trees.

Wekiwa Springs State Park

Visitors will be treated to the brilliant oranges and yellows of the cypress, maple, sweetgum, sugarberry, and persimmon trees. They grow amongst palm trees for an interesting contrast.

For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/

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Entertainment for Your Fall Festival

Autumn festivals are a tradition as old as time when people gave thanks and celebrated a bountiful harvest. While most people won’t be bringing in crops, they’ll be harvesting fun when you hold a fall festival. Autumn is an excellent time for an autumn get together with entertainments to match. Don’t forget the music.

Bounce House

A staple of any fair, carnival or festival, renting a bounce house will provide hours of fun for children ages 6 to 12.

Carnival Games

No festival would be complete without some games of chance. Hosts can rent carnival games encompassing Whack a Mole, skee ball, basketball throw, and dunk tank. You can also include a safe battle axe throw, balloon pop, strongman game, and the ever-popular ring toss.

Face Painting

Children love face painting and there’s always a long waiting line to have their face adorned in everything from unicorns and wild animals to butterflies and superheroes. All that’s required is some Halloween makeup and talented artists.

Food Fest

Every festival must have food and there are multiple ways that can be supplied. The festival can include a chili cookoff, pie baking contest, BBQ, or practically any type of fall food offering. Include some fall favorites such as cider, spiced doughnuts, and caramel apples.

For large neighborhood gatherings, food trucks may be the solution. There are also machines that can be rented to provide a continuous supply of rotisserie hotdogs, snow cones, cotton candy, and popcorn.

Scavenger Hunt

A scavenger hunt can be as simple or complex as the host desires. There are options for adults to the youngest children.

Trampoline

People of all ages like to bounce and a bungee jump trampoline provide a safe means for teens and adults to experience the exhilaration of flying through the air.

Yard Games

Popular board games have made the leap to adult size yard games ranging from checkers to Connect Four.

For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/

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Top Halloween Kids Costumes of 2022

Kids’ interests change from year to year and Halloween is a chance for youngsters to emulate their favorite superhero, animated character, or prehistoric predator. The following are some of the top sellers for 2022.

Elsa

The character from Frozen has become a perennial favorite, with new legions of little girls discovering the film every year.

Encanto

Girls have a lot of characters from which to choose from in the Disney film about a Colombian family. Youngsters can select from Mirabel, Isabela, and Luisa, depending on who they relate to the most.

Mandalorian

The Star Wars universe holds special appeal for anyone who has seen the films. That popularity has continued with the bounty hunter Mandalorian in the Star Wars universe.

Moana

The animated movie character, based on Polynesian culture, is a strong role model for girls and remains a favorite, even though the original film debuted in 2016.

Steampunk

The costumes feature a variety of nifty gadgets and garments that are just plain fun to wear. The costumes combine retro with science fiction, a look that’s earned its place with older youngsters.

Superheroes

The number of books, TV series and films featuring superheroes is extensive and Halloween costumes are emulating that trend. Children are asking for costumes of Wonder Woman, Black Adam, Black Panther, Spider-Man, Thor, Iron Man, and Dr. Strange.

The Little Mermaid

The remake of The Little Mermaid featuring an African-American girl as Ariel quickly made an impression of girls around the globe.

Top Gun

The highly-touted Top Gun: Maverick film was a favorite of parents and children and that’s being reflected in the number of youngsters that are clamoring to don a flight suit and aviator sunglasses.

Witches

The costumes are a stand-out favorite every Halloween, selling more than any other costume. Individuals will see a myriad of witch costumes, along with replicas of the Sanderson Sisters garb from the film Hocus Pocus 2.

Younger Children

Still popular with the younger set are Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Mario from the video games. Smaller children are also enamored with the new League of Super-Pets. Harry Potter continues to charm children, along with Wednesday from the Addams Family. Don’t overlook the allure of the prehistoric or the future – dinosaur costumes continue to be popular, along with Baby Yoda.

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Why Karaoke is so Popular

There are many reasons why karaoke is so popular and has become a staple at bars and even senior centers. Karaoke burst on the scene in the U.S. in the 1970s. Invented in Japan, it remains popular there, along with South Korea and the Philippines. Modern-day karaoke is a variation of “amateur night” activities that were popular from the 1930s to the 1980s when karaoke arrived.

Low Cost

It’s a cost-effective investment for businesses. While karaoke machines and lyric prompters can run thousands of dollars, there are also less expensive options that still provide the same amount of fun and participation.

Live Entertainment

Gone are the days when people were happy simply listening to a jukebox. People crave live entertainment.

Size Matters

In many venues, there’s insufficient space for a live band to set up and it’s expensive for the business owner. A karaoke machine takes up very little space, even with a small stage for singers.

Greater Acceptance

When karaoke first arrived in the U.S., it wasn’t viewed very kindly. As participation increased, so did its acceptance as a mainstream activity rather than a guilty pleasure.

Voice Work

More people are joining in the gig economy and doing voiceovers, covers of popular songs, and voices for everything from commercials to animated video. Karaoke gives people the opportunity to showcase their talent, make connections, and make money.

Singing Feels Good

Almost everyone likes to sing, from the youngest child to the oldest adult and it fosters a sense of community. Singing releases “feel good” endorphins and allows individuals to have the spotlight, if only for the length of a song.

Singing Opportunities

Just about everyone has dreamed of being “discovered” at one time or another. It’s a closely held fantasy by many. The advent of talent-based shows such as American Idol have been presenting opportunities for those with talent that first began singing karaoke.

For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/

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Top 5 Bounce House Safety Rules

Inflatable bounce houses are one of the most popular entertainments for children 12 and under. People rent them for home use to celebrate birthdays and similar events. They’re also utilized by schools, churches and non-profit organizations for fundraising events. Before renting a bounce house, individuals should be aware of the top 5 bounce house safety rules

Safe Ages

No one age 6 or under should be allowed to use a bounce house. Children within that age group don’t have the motor skills required to right themselves when they fall and are unable to maintain their balance.

Location

There are some specific safety precautions that must be observed when setting up a bounce house. It must rest on flat, solid ground free of rocks, sticks and other forms of debris. It should be set back away from fences, outbuildings, trees, sprinkler heads, and overhead power lines. A soft surface should be provided around the entrance for an extra level of safety.

Anchors and Weather

Anchors are used to keep bounce houses in place while they’re being used. Where the anchors will be placed should be far away from underground utility lines. Never use a bounce house when its raining. If a breeze comes up that’s strong enough to blow dust around, immediately discontinue use of the inflatable.

Laws and Insurance

There are no national guidelines governing the set up of a bounce house. Check to make sure that the homeowner’s policy provides coverage for bounce houses if a person is injured. Even if the bounce house rental company is insured, their policy may not provide coverage for injuries.

Supervision

Rental companies may or may not provide experienced staff to manage the inflatable and supervise children. The best solution is for a professional from the company to perform those tasks. If no staff member is provided, it’s essential that a responsible adult is on duty at all times to supervise youngsters.

It will be the adult’s responsibility to ensure children leave sharp objects outside before entering and they take off their shoes. They’ll also need to limit the number of users at one time to ensure that children of the same weight are grouped together to aid in reducing the risk of injury.

For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/

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Does General Liability Insurance Cover Bounce Houses?

Parents want to treat their children to some summer fun and one of the ways they’re doing that is through bounce house rentals. What individuals should know is that there’s always the potential for an injury. General liability is a component of homeowner’s insurance and will typically cover any injuries that may occur. However, it’s always best to check first.

Rental Companies

The injury potential with a bounce house is present, even when youngsters are highly supervised and when renting from a reputable company. It’s equally important that the rental company has insurance and their plan also covers injuries. The company may not be held liable, but individuals always have the option of suing.

Businesses and Organizations

Businesses, church groups, schools and non-profit organizations are just some of the entities that may rent a bounce house. General liability insurance will usually cover the cost of an injury. However, if the business or organization is found not to be liable, the parents may file a lawsuit.

Before renting any type of amusement, it’s best that individuals meet with their insurance representative to identify any potential gaps or blind spots. Business coverage for bounce houses and similar types of entertainments may be less expensive when combined with standard liability for a more comprehensive level of protection.

Additional Coverage

If for some reason a homeowner’s policy doesn’t cover things like bounce houses or trampolines, many insurance companies will include the coverage as an addition to the regular homeowner’s policy – at an additional cost.

Before Renting

Every homeowner, business and organization should consult with their insurance agent before renting a bounce house to ensure they’re covered in the event of an injury. There are many instances that are covered without being explicitly listed, while others are named risks. While general liability insurance will usually cover any injuries that happen, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/

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Pool Safety Devices for Toddlers

Children of all ages are drawn to water, but have no concept of the danger that it presents. Swimming pools are a way of life for many families and the youngest populations are at the biggest risk for drowning. Death by drowning is the top cause of death for youngsters ages 1 to 4. According to the Florida Dept. of Children and Families, a record number of children drowned in 2021.

The state requires any pool built after 2000 to have pool barriers or a fence around it that meets certain specifications. However, multiple layers of protection are recommended. Whenever a child will be near a pool, safety devices should be employed. Don’t rely on floaties and never leave a child unsupervised, even near a wading pool. Parents and caregiver should know there are a variety of pool safety devices specifically for young children.

Alarm Kit

The kit contains a wristband that’s placed on the child. When it comes in contact with water, an alarm is triggered at the base system. The devices are reusable and there are multiple brands from which to choose. Many pets also drown each year when they can’t escape from a pool and some of the kits come with adapters for use with pets.

Immersion Alarm

Above ground pools present as much risk to children as an inground pool. An immersion alarm is designed with a motion sensor that detects movement within the water. They emit a loud siren, many are equipped with Wi-Fi capabilities, and have adjustable sensitivity levels.

Pool Cover

When properly installed, safety pool covers for in-ground pools are designed to prevent children from entering the water. Pool covers aren’t designed for children to walk on. However, they can keep children out of the water until an adult can reach them. Be sure to select a heavy-duty model.

For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/

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Is it Safe for Adults to go in Bounce Houses?

Adults can safely use a bounce house – provided it’s a medium to large size structure and they follow a few simple safety precautions. The smaller bounce houses that individuals normally encounter at fairs and carnivals are typically designed for children. They have lower weight and maximum occupancy limits. They were designed specifically to provide entertainment for youngsters.

The good news is that there are some bounce houses that can withstand the weight of older children and adults. Individuals contemplating a rental should make inquiries with the rental company about specifications. These types of bounce houses are equipped with stronger fans to maintain inflation rates.

They’re able to withstand the greater force exerted by a jumping adult. A bounce house with a weight limit of 1,000 lbs. or more is able to accommodate 4 to 5 adults. The amusements are manufactured with stronger materials and stitching. All bounce houses require anchoring to keep them firmly on the ground. Be aware that an adult bounce house will typically require additional anchoring.

Adults should avoid smaller bounce houses, those designed for indoor use, and any of the entertainments that measure less than 10×10 ft. If the device begins to deflate within the first few minutes, it’s obviously not designed for adult usage.

Even when a bounce house is designed to withstand the impact of adults, they should never use one at the same time as youngsters. That’s especially important if the child is young. Children age 6 and under shouldn’t use bounce houses. They don’t have the balance needed or the required motor skills to keep themselves upright.

There’s something irresistible about bounce houses that appeals to children and adults. As long as adults pay attention to weight and occupancy limits, they can have all the fun in the structure that children do. Safety should always be a primary concern and simple safety precautions will ensure that the bounce house doesn’t sustain damage and no one is injured.

For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/

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What to Expect When Renting a Large Waterslide

Waterslides are a great way to keep cool and the inflatables are one of the most popular rental amusements available. There are a number of services that should be included when renting a waterslide and individuals should never sign a rental contract unless all of those services, and costs, are specifically spelled out in writing.

Before Renting

Prior to renting any waterslide, give serious consideration to available space and the ages of the people that will be using it. Double-lane waterslides are particularly popular and some can deposit users in an in-ground pool. They’re available in a wide range of heights, an important consideration for younger groups and those that may have a fear of heights.

Delivery

The date and time of the delivery should be clear and the individual delivering the waterslide should ensure the space it will occupy is located away from potential dangers such as trees, buildings, fences and electrical lines. He/she should also ensure that there’s adequate space to accommodate the slide. Many waterslides are 40 ft. tall.

Set Up

The person delivering the waterslide will need access to water to keep the slide lubricated and electricity for inflation. Stakes will be driven in the ground to secure the slide – be mindful of water pipes, underground utilities and irrigation systems. If any of those essentials present a problem, he/she shouldn’t perform the set up.

Safety

Everyone wants to have a safe time, as well as an enjoyable one. Safety should be the rental company’s number one priority. The waterslide should be in good condition, a generator provided for inflation purposes, and it should be wiped down to preserve hygiene.

Tear Down

At the end of the rental period, the company should have sent someone to promptly perform tear down and deflation tasks. The company’s team member(s) will be able to quickly and safely remove it.

For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/

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Back to School Party Ideas!

Students have returned to school and the hectic lead up to the first day of school has subsided. New classes, teachers and friends can be duly celebrated with a back-to-school party. There are numerous ways to celebrate and themes that can be utilized to provide a fun time for students.

Inflatables

Depending on the available space, individuals can rent waterslides, carnival games, mechanical rides and virtual reality experiences, along with sports arenas and obstacle courses. To make food easy and simple, there are also fun food machines that can be rented.

Scavenger Hunt

There’s something about a scavenger hunt that intrigues people of all ages. In keeping with a back-to-school theme, children can be set the task of finding fun school-related items or things in nature for a science-based theme. Be sure to supply some fun prizes for everyone.

Photo Booth

A photo booth can easily be rented and individuals will supply the items that youngsters can combine in any way they desire for their fun, silly photos. Be creative and include Halloween costumes and items from other holidays, oversized sunglasses, fun hats and accessories. Many of the items can be found at dollar stores.

Ice Cream & Smoothie Bar

Create an ice cream or smoothie bar with lots of fruits and toppings. It’s a great way for youngsters of any age to stay cool with healthy treats. Add some music and let the fun begin.

Balloons

Individuals have a lot of latitude when planning parties with balloons. They can host a water balloon bash. For a nighttime party, there are glow in the dark balloons and those that shine under a black light. Hold a balloon bust party where students step on balloons to break them for prizes. Balloons are available in an array of shapes and colors.

For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/

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