TV Tip-overs: Is Your TV Secure?
by Blank Children's Hospital - February 3, 2014
A new research report entitled “ A Report to The Nation on Home Safety: The Dangers of TV Tip-Overs” was released by Safe Kids Worldwide and SANUS that revealed from 2000 to 2010, on average, every three weeks, a child dies from a television tipping over.
Young children are at greatest risk of TV tip-overs. According to the research, 7 out of 10 children injured by TV tip-overs are 5 years old or younger. This age group also accounts for 9 out of 10 serious injuries requiring hospitalization, including head injuries, which are among the most severe.
“Every 45 minutes, or less than the length of a Sesame Street episode, a child visits the ER because of a TV tipping over.”
Is your TV secure?
Many TV tip-overs are a result of unsteady TVs that are not secured to the wall. Flat screen TVs that are top-heavy with narrow bases can be easily pulled off an entertainment center or table. Large and heavy old-style cathode ray tube (CRT) TVs placed on dressers or high furniture can also tip over if children climb the drawers to reach a remote control, food, a video game or anything else that attracts their attention.
With TV sets reaching heavier weights, the possible consequences of a tip-over could be serious, if not fatal. The report also revealed that three out of four parents don’t secure their TV to the wall. Most families are unaware that securing a TV is an important safety measure. Others decide not to mount their TVs because of concerns about damaging the wall or installing the TV incorrectly.
Minimize risk in your home:
- Check Your TV. Assess the stability of the TVs in your home. Remember, a curious, determined child can topple a TV. Children playing with friends or pets could knock a TV over, while other kids might be tempted to climb up to reach items placed on or near a TV, such as remote controls or candy.
- Secure Your TV. Securing your TV to the wall is a safe solution. Much like child proofing with a toddler gate or electrical socket cover, TV mounts, TV Safety Straps and furniture straps are necessary precautions for keeping your family safe.
- Take Action. Consider mounting your TV to the wall by purchasing a TV wall mount or purchase a TV Safety Strap to secure your TV to its stand and the wall.
Stop by Safety Store at Blank Children’s Hospital to purchase a TV Safety Strap ($10).
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