Anchoring and Securing Furniture: A Guide to Preventing Tip-Overs.
Furniture tip-overs can pose serious risks, especially for households with children. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), thousands of injuries occur annually due to furniture instability.
The Gravity of the Issue: Statistics on Furniture Tip-Overs
The CPSC reports that, on average, one child dies every two weeks due to furniture or TV tip-over accidents. The majority of these incidents involve children under the age of five. Understanding the gravity of the issue is crucial for implementing effective preventative measures.
Tips for Anchoring and Securing Furniture
1. Common Furniture That Needs Anchoring:
Dressers, Wardrobes, Tallboys and Chest of Drawers.
Bookshelves, Bookcases, Tall Storage and Display Stands – (indoor and outdoor, don’t forget the garden and garage)
Televisions, TV and Entertainment Units and Cabinets
Large Mirrors and Artworks
Cupboards, Storage Units and Sideboards – (kitchen, bathroom, bedrooms and hallway)
2. Choose the Right Anchors
Selecting appropriate furniture anchors is the first step. Look for sturdy, high-quality anchors that are suitable for the size and weight of your furniture. Many anti-tip kits come with metal brackets and straps designed for various furniture types. Most modern furniture comes with anchors at time of purchase, alternatively they can be bought at Furniture and Hardware stores or sourced online.
3. Secure Heavy Items
Identify top-heavy furniture, such as dressers, bookshelves, or entertainment centres, and prioritize anchoring them. Secure items that are prone to tipping, especially in rooms where children spend a significant amount of time.
4. Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions
Always adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines for installing anti-tip devices. These instructions are specific to the piece of furniture and should be followed meticulously to ensure the anchor is properly installed.
5. Mount TVs Safely
Mounting TVs on the wall reduces the risk of tip-overs. If you choose to place a TV on furniture, secure it with anti-tip straps. Additionally, keep cords out of reach to prevent pulling.
6. Regularly Check and Re-Tighten
Over time, anchors may loosen due to various factors. Regularly inspect and re-tighten them to maintain their effectiveness. This simple step can significantly enhance the stability of your furniture.
Warnings and Precautions
1. Supervise Children
While anchoring and securing furniture is crucial, supervision is equally important. Teach children about the dangers of climbing on furniture and the importance of safe behavior at home.
2. Avoid Placing Items on Top
Discourage placing tempting items like toys or remote controls on top of furniture. This can discourage climbing and reduce the likelihood of tip-overs. Put heavier items on lower drawers or shelves to stabilise the weight in the base of the furniture. Consider locks or childproof latches on drawers and cabinet doors to prevent children from using them to climb up.
3. Educate Caregivers and Visitors
Inform caregivers, babysitters, and visitors about the importance of furniture anchoring. Ensure that everyone is aware of the potential risks and follows safety measures.
Conclusion
Preventing furniture tip-overs by anchoring and securing furniture is a proactive step towards ensuring a safe home environment, especially for families with young children. By following these tips, staying informed about the risks, and investing in quality anchors, you contribute to a safer living space and protect your loved ones from potential accidents. Always prioritize safety and take the necessary steps to secure your furniture today.
Hire a Professional
Although anchoring and securing furniture is relatively easy for most people to do themselves, there are instances when it’s better to call in a professional. If you are not confident or experienced in anchoring furniture to plaster, drywall or brick masonry, consider using a Masonry contractor or a professional Child-proofer Service.