Updated: May 25, 2021
Originally Published: April 24, 2016
A recent video highlights the vital need for securing furniture to prevent tragic accidents involving young children. Following the heartbreaking news of yet another child fatality linked to unsecured IKEA dressers, parents are becoming more aware of the dangers posed by unstable furniture. These incidents are not only devastating but also preventable with the right knowledge and tools.
Last year, the Consumer Product Safety Commission released an informative video demonstrating how easily furniture can tip over, leading to severe injuries or even fatalities. It clearly outlines methods for securing furniture using simple kits available for purchase. Fair warning, the content may be unsettling — even though a dummy was utilized for demonstrations, it’s hard to watch without cringing.
Many of us may have similar arrangements in our own homes or at relatives’ places. In the rush to child-proof every corner, we might overlook heavy items like TVs precariously perched on dressers, which can create tipping hazards. A child can easily open a lower drawer to gain leverage and climb, which is a frightening thought that happens all too often. Alarmingly, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, a child is injured every 24 minutes due to falling furniture. That’s a statistic that sends shivers down the spine!
Fortunately, furniture anchoring kits are both affordable and easy to find. For instance, you can grab this one from Amazon for just $12. Consider purchasing several and attaching them to every baby shower gift you give. It’s a small price to pay when you think about the potential consequences of not securing furniture.
I usually refrain from lecturing others about child-proofing, as every household has its own approach to potential risks. However, this is one topic where open conversations with friends and family can make a significant difference. It’s not something everyone considers until it’s too late.
Tragically, a child from my friend Sarah’s daycare lost her life after climbing a dresser to reach the TV and insert a DVD. The entire unit collapsed on her while her mother was just in the next room. It was a horrifying reminder for many parents, including myself, to reassess our own homes and ensure that our furniture is secured. It’s awful that such a tragedy is what it takes to highlight the importance of securing furniture, but at least we can take steps to protect our children.
I genuinely don’t want this to happen to anyone else’s child. Please take the time to watch the video, and if you need them, purchase the kits. Make sure your dressers are anchored, and ensure that heavy TVs are not positioned in a way that children could accidentally pull them down. Discuss this with your parents, childcare providers, friends, and neighbors — it’s crucial to prevent any more injuries or fatalities caused by something that can be easily fixed.
This article was originally published on April 24, 2016.
If you’re looking for more information, check out our other blog posts like the one on home insemination kits which provides insights into family planning. Also, Make A Mom offers expert advice on insemination techniques to assist in your journey. For comprehensive resources on pregnancy and fertility, the Cleveland Clinic’s podcast on IVF and fertility preservation is an excellent resource.
Summary:
Securing furniture is essential for child safety, especially in light of recent tragedies linked to unsecured items. A video by the Consumer Product Safety Commission illustrates the dangers and offers solutions for anchoring furniture. It’s vital to have conversations with friends and family about this issue, ensuring that all homes are safe for children. Affordable anchoring kits are available, and taking preventive measures can save lives.