Preventing Tip-Over Deaths and Injuries

The recent death of a 13 month old Fairfax County boy, is just another example of the often overlooked danger of tip-overs. The CPSC has found that deaths and injuries due to falling furniture and TVs are on the rise and that on average, one child dies every two weeks from falling TVs, furniture, and appliances. This is a safety concern for kids of all ages. I urge parents to follow these simple, yet important, safety tips to avoid this tragedy which has become all too common.

• Anchor all furniture, especially TV stands, dressers, bookstands, and entertainment units, to the wall or floor.
• Place TVs on low, sturdy stands. Avoid placing TVs on flimsy shelves or dressers.
• Keep dressers and TV stands empty of attractive items which could encourage a child to climb furniture to gain access.
• Free-standing ranges and stoves tip easily and should be installed with anti-tip brackets.
• Consider latching dresser drawers which when open can be used as a ladder for a child climb.
• Push TVs as far back on the stand as possible.
• Consider mounting your TV or purchase a strap to anchor your TV to the wall or the back of a sturdy stand. Adhesive TV strapping options are also available and can be very effective if used properly.