Don’t overlook this crucial baby-proofing action that could save lives.
When it comes to baby proofing our homes, installing baby gates often takes the spotlight, but one vital aspect is frequently neglected – anchoring furniture. The potential dangers of furniture tip-overs are often underestimated, and the consequences can be severe, with injuries and even fatalities. Startling statistics reveal that countless children end up in emergency rooms each year due to furniture-related accidents, making it a leading cause of injuries among children under the age of five.
Here’s what you need to do to ensure this crucial baby proofing action is completed correctly:
- Anchor Furniture in All Rooms:
Don’t limit furniture anchoring to just your child’s bedroom or playroom. Regardless of size or weight, all furniture in the house can pose a tipping risk, particularly those with drawers or shelves that can be pulled out and climbed upon. Taking a comprehensive approach to baby-proofing and anchoring furniture in all rooms is essential to minimize potential hazards.
- Don’t Assume It Won’t Tip:
Even seemingly stable pieces of furniture can still pose a tipping risk. Climbing on heavy furniture or creating an imbalance by pulling out drawers or shelves can lead to accidents. It’s crucial never to assume that a particular piece of furniture won’t tip over; always prioritize precautionary measures by anchoring it securely.
- Consider the Contents on Top:
Think about the items placed on top of the furniture when assessing the need for anchoring. Toys, remote controls, mobile phones, or any enticing objects can attract curious climbers. To discourage climbing, avoid placing tempting items on top of furniture. This reduces the likelihood of your child attempting to reach for them and inadvertently causing the furniture to tip over.
- Anchor Early and Be Proactive:
Procrastination can be risky when it comes to furniture anchoring. Once your child starts moving and exploring their surroundings, be proactive and anchor furniture as a preventive measure. Taking action early helps create a safe environment and minimizes the risk of accidents or injuries caused by furniture tip-overs.
- Seek Professional Assistance:
If you’re unsure about how to properly anchor furniture or the type of material you’re anchoring into, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Consulting a professional baby proofing service, such as First Steps Safe Steps Baby Proofing, whose knowledgeable experts can provide guidance on securing your furniture safely. They can offer valuable insights, recommend appropriate anchoring methods, and ensure your furniture is properly secured, giving you peace of mind.
The statistics speak volumes – furniture tip overs pose a real and concerning risk to our curious little explorers. That’s why furniture anchors are like superheroes, swooping in to save the day. Take the time to install them properly and create a safe and worry-free space where your child can thrive. By prioritising furniture anchoring alongside other baby-proofing measures, you are actively safeguarding your child’s well-being and creating a home that fosters exploration and growth while minimising potential hazards.
