Killer TVs And Falling Furniture: Parents Beware Dangers
Killer TVs and the dangers of falling furniture are the subjects of an update from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
According to USA Today, the commission’s report found 2011 to be the worst year on record for deaths caused by falling televisions. With most of the 29 victims on record being children, parents should be concerned. Children also accounted for a large portion of 18,000 people a year that sustain TV related injuries.
Dangers can arise from flat-screen models that are not properly secured to a stable surface. Lighter in weight and easy to grab, children will often pull the set over onto themselves. The older, bulkier models can also pose risks with parents placing them atop kids’ dressers where they might topple over if pulled upon.
UPI reports that the Consumer Product Safety Commission is encouraging parents to help prevent tip-over tragedies by securing at risk appliances and furniture. Inez Tenenbaum, head of the commission, said the following:
“We know that low-cost anchoring devices are effective in preventing tip-over incidents. I urge parents to anchor their TVs, furniture and appliances and protect their children. It takes just a few minutes to do and it can save lives.”
Parents can also help by keeping surfaces clean of objects typically attractive to children. Keys, cell phones, and small items often placed atop heavy furniture can draw kids into climbing, pulling, or tip-over accidents.
A new report by Safe Kids, as reported by Today, states that concerns about the damage caused to walls by anchors and other such stabling devices often prevent parents from properly securing televisions.
Is your family protected from the dangers of killer TVs? How would you prevent furniture-related injuries?
