CPSC Report Shows Highest Number Of Tip-Over Deaths Recorded

The year 2011 saw the most furniture tip-over deaths ever, according to a new report released by the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The report, issued Friday showed that 349 people, about 84 percent aged nine or younger, were killed between 2000 and 2011. In 2011, there were 41 recorded fatalities, which is the highest-ever number of reported fatalities recorded. According to the CPSC said that on average, a child dies every two weeks when a television, piece of furniture or appliance falls on him or her.

The CPSC data showed more than 43,000 consumers are injured yearly and more than 25,000 of those injuries are to children aged 18 and younger. Out of the children killed, 81 percent were between the ages of one and five. About three children an hour are injured. The data also showed more than half, about 58 percent of those killed are crushed. Some also die from being trapped and unable to breathe or being hit or struck. The remaining 13 percent die from unknown causes.

To help prevent tip-over tragedies, CPSC recommends the following safety measures in homes where children live or visit:

• Anchor furniture to the wall or the floor.
• Place TVs on sturdy, low bases, or anchor the furniture and the TV on top the base, and push the TV as far back on the furniture as possible.
• Keep remote controls, toys, and other items that might attract children off of TV stands or furniture.
• Keep TV and/or cable cords out of reach of children.
• Make sure freestanding kitchen ranges and stoves are installed with anti-tip brackets.
• Supervise children in rooms where these safety tips have not been followed.

If you or your loved one has suffered serious personal injuries, it is imperative to discuss your situation with an experienced Wisconsin personal injury attorney. Call today for your free, initial consultation.

CPSC Furniture Tipover Fact Sheet