Having an unsecured television set in a home with small children present is often a disaster waiting to happen. They are curious enough and sometimes strong enough to pull a set down on top of themselves. Adults can become seriously injured as well. The Consumer Products Safety Commission reports that more than 43,000 Americans are injured in accidents related to TV sets and furniture each year. For those who own a plasma TV, securing it can be challenging but not impossible.Options to Keep a TV in Place
- Purchasing a strap that wraps around the back of the set and attaches to the wall or a secure stand is a simple and inexpensive option. Possible choices include nylon straps and those that require the owner to use screws and mounting holes to keep it in place. Some manufacturers include a strap with the original packaging of the TV.
- For families whose children aren't yet mobile, placing the television on a higher stand is a good short-term solution. However, it needs to be kept entirely out of the child's reach if there is even a slight possibility he or she could try to pull up on it.
- Mounting the TV on the wall is the safest alternative in addition to creating more space on the floor below. This project typically requires at least one stud to hold the weight of the television. The manufacturer of the TV should be able to provide information on how to secure it with studs. There is also the possibility of mounting the set to furniture that accompanies the TV or behind the furniture.
- Keeping cords tied up and out of reach is also essential for child safety. Stapling them to the wall and covering the cord with decorations is one way to go about this.