Do you remember back when you were a kid? I am talking about the time in your life when all you had to worry about was what you were going to do for those three months between grades. You remember……summer vacation! Those were the days! Sleeping in……playing all day…….staying outside until the last possible minute. I know it is further back for some of us, and more recent for others, but just get that image in your mind.I want this time of the year to be all that for todays kids. I want them to have no worries; to spend all day playing and being safe while doing it. I’m sure that I am not alone in these thoughts. No parent wants their children to be in danger of being harmed, especially in their own home. Research shows that 69% of children’s deaths were from home related accidents.
As times have changed, some of the dangers in homes have become more prevalent. My hope is by posting this blog I can prevent one child from being injured or even killed by an in home accident.
Where are the danger zones in your house?
These are the first places to look:
- Stairs and balconies and lofts – Many of the homes built today have big beautiful staircases, balconies and second story lofts overlooking the lower level. Many buyers in today’s market are attracted to these features. As cool as they seem, they pose a risk of falling to curious, active children of all ages.
- Entertainment center – There has been a recent rise in the number of children that are injured by a falling television. This is attributed to the rising number of large flat screen TV’s which are usually on low stands which allows them to tip easily. Another cause is an improperly installed wall mount which can, and has, fallen on children. A majority of these injuries are to children under six years old.
- Near heavy furniture – Tall furniture (bookcases, chests, armoires, etc.) that is not attached to the wall with safety straps or L-brackets can fall on children especially if they try to climb.
- Exercise room – Children fall from exercise equipment and break bones. Even something as harmless as a treadmill can cause severe friction burns from touching the belt. Free weights and barbells can cause damage if dropped.
- Swimming pool – When most people think about pool safety, they automatically think about the dangers of drowning. That is a very real danger that needs to be addressed, but not the only one associated with swimming pools. Faulty wiring in filter systems and pool lights can cause electrocution. Don’t take it for granted that everything is ok; make sure.
Just by addressing these five areas you are making your home much safer for your children, and for yourself. If you have any questions regarding the safety or integrity of any area or component of your home you should call to schedule a Maintenance Inspection. Don’t wait until it’s too late.
Is Your Balcony A Danger Zone?
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