Secure Your TV

A new report released recently by Safe Kids Worldwide and SANUS revealed that every three weeks, a child dies from a television tipping over -- and nearly 13,000 more children are injured each year in the U.S.

The report shows that young children are at greatest risk of TV tip-overs. According to the research, seven out of 10 children injured by TV tip-overs are 5 years old or younger. This age group also accounts for nine 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," said Susan Helms, director of Injury Prevention and Safe Kids Mid-South at Le Bonheur.

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, a piece of candy, a video game or anything else that attracts their attention.

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.

"You wouldn't think to bring a baby home from the hospital without a car seat or have your child ride a bike without a helmet," said Helms. "Similarly, securing your TV will go a long way in protecting your family."

Make sure you do the following to prevent furniture tipovers 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 and furniture straps are necessary precautions for keeping your family safe.