TV Tip‑Overs and Kids: What Every Parent Needs to Know
You might not think a television could harm your child, but the tragic truth from Safe Kids Worldwide is this: Every three weeks a child dies from a TV tipping over, and every day, 10 kids go to the ER because of a TV tip-over.
TVs are top-heavy. If you put one on a narrow stand or dresser, they become unstable — and of course, children sometimes climb furniture. They might pull the TV forward while trying to reach remotes or toys. Older CRT televisions are even heavier and can cause serious injuries when they fall.
These accidents are preventable. In this guide, we explain how to anchor your TV to prevent tip-overs and other ways to keep your children safe at home.
How to prevent your TV from tipping over
The safest option is to mount your TV to the wall, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a sturdy bracket rated for your TV’s size and weight.
If wall‑mounting isn’t possible, anchor the TV to the stand with TV safety straps.
Secure furniture and cords
Anchor dressers, bookcases and TV stands to wall studs using L‑brackets or anti‑tip kits.
Move heavy items low: Place heavy objects like gaming consoles and DVD players on lower shelves to lower the center of gravity.
Hide or secure cords: Bundle cords together and use cable covers to keep them out of sight. Avoid placing remotes or toys on top of TVs or high shelves where children might climb.
About those old CRT TVs
If you still use a CRT television, position it on a low, wide piece of furniture. Secure the TV with straps to prevent sliding. When choosing a TV stand, select a model with a broad, stable base. Avoid tall and narrow cabinets.
Child safety and TVs: Teach and supervise
Explain to children that TVs and furniture are not climbing toys. Set rules about not playing near the TV and always supervise toddlers in rooms with TVs.
Make sure to educate caregivers and babysitters about the importance of keeping children away from unsecured equipment, too.
TV tip‑over accidents are tragic and avoidable
By anchoring your TV and furniture, managing cords and teaching children about safety, you can protect your family from a preventable hazard.
Want more great ideas on how to make the most out of TV time with your family? Check out the MantelMount blog.
Frequently asked questions
How common are TV tip‑over accidents?
A child dies approximately every three weeks from TV tip‑overs, and 10 children visit the emergency room every day, according to Safe Kids Worldwide.
How can I secure a TV to prevent tip‑overs?
Mount flat‑screen TVs to the wall or anchor them to furniture using anti‑tip straps. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure screws are driven into wall studs.
What furniture safety measures prevent TV tip‑overs?
Anchor bookcases, dressers and TV stands to the wall, move heavy items to lower shelves, hide cords, and recycle old TVs to reduce risk.
