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Look out for hidden household dangers
STILLWATER, Okla. – Most parents child proof their houses to keep their curious youngsters out of harm’s way.
While the usual proofing includes covering outlets and keeping poisonous household products out of reach, there are hidden dangers some do not plan for.
Debbie Richardson, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension parenting assistant specialist said there are many things parents overlook which could have disastrous result for young children.
“A parent may not regularly open a window, but this doesn’t mean a child won’t,” Richardson said. “Don’t place furniture in front of a window, it allows children to easily climb up and out of the opening. Be sure to have protective screens or window guards on the windows.”
Another hidden danger is window treatment cords.
Richardson said accidents could easily be avoided if parents tie cords up from blinds or curtains, high and out of a child’s reach.
“Power cords are also very dangerous and can cause electrical burns, strangulation, tripping and serious head trauma from appliances being pulled down by children,” she said. “Be sure to unplug and secure power cords when and where possible and move appliances out of the way.”
The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports more than 25,000 children each year are injured from exercise equipment, including stationary bicycles, treadmills and stair climbers. Many of these injuries are due to power cords.
Richardson said to limit access to the room where exercise equipment is stored and make sure the room is supervised when children are in it.
According to a report from the Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children’s Hospital nearly 15, 000 children are sent to the emergency room each year because of injuries from furniture falling on them.
“Injuries may be caused by furniture or appliances tipping over particularly by a child pulling on, climbing on or pushing furniture,” Richardson said. “Parents can prevent injuries by installing inexpensive wall mounting kits, brackets or safety straps. These are found at hardware and baby stores and can secure substantial weight.”
Make sure large or heavy items are placed on wide-based cabinets, not unstable carts or pedestals. To reduce the temptation of climbing, place heavy items such as a TV, or other items interesting to the child such as toys, on lower shelves. Drawer stops are also available to restrict how far drawers can be pulled out to reduce the chance of tip-overs or climbing.
Richardson said Safe Kids USA found online at http://www.usa.safekids.org/ is a good source for parents to find more information about hazards.
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Oklahoma State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture, State and Local Governments Cooperating: The Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, or status as a veteran, and is an equal opportunity employer.
Katie L. Reim
Communications Specialist
Agricultural Communications
Services
140 Agriculture North
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK 74078
405-744-6792 (Phone)
405-744-5739 (Fax)
katie.reim@okstate.edu
