BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — The Super Bowl is right around the corner, so it is the perfect time to mount your television to the wall if you haven’t already.
COVID-19 restrictions have forced families to stay inside their homes, causing children to be at an increased danger of injury or even death due to furniture and TV tip-overs.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) launched a campaign called “Even When You’re Watching” which is a public service announcement that addresses misconceptions about child safety surrounding large pieces of furniture.
The PSA highlights that even if a parent or caregiver is present, their child is still in danger of a falling TV—which is hundreds of pounds.
CPSC Communications Director Joseph Martyak said the process of securing a television to either a dresser or the wall is simple and only takes a matter of minutes.
Martyak continued that mounts only cost around ten dollars and can be found in most department stores.
To protect children from an accident, the CPSC urges parents and caregivers to follow these simple safety steps:
Anchor TVs and furniture, such as bookcases and dressers, securely to the wall.
Always place TVs on a sturdy, low base, and push the TV back as far as possible, particularly if anchoring is not possible.
Avoid displaying or storing items, such as toys and remotes, in places where kids might be tempted to climb up to reach for them.
Store heavier items on lower shelves, or in lower drawers.
If purchasing a new TV for the “Big Game,” consider recycling older ones not currently in use. If moving the older TV to another room, be sure it is anchored to the wall properly.
Keep TV and cable cords out of reach of children.
Even in rooms with TVs and furniture anchored, adult supervision is still recommended.
The Super Bowl is a major event that comes with a lot of passion and energy among viewers, so it is more important than ever to take these preventative actions.
WBZ NewsRadio's Jim MacKay (@JimMacKayOnAir) reports.
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Written by Edyn Jensen
(Photo: Getty Images)