Toy chests are a common sight in households with children. They are used to store toys and keep the play area organized. However, if not used properly, toy chests can pose a danger to children. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), from 2015 to 2017, there were an estimated 82,000 emergency department-treated injuries associated with nursery products among children under the age of five.
Toy Chest Hazards
Entrapment: One of the most common hazards associated with toy chests is entrapment. Children have been known to climb into toy chests and become trapped inside. This can lead to suffocation, injury, or death.
Strangulation: Some toy chests come with lids that can close on their own, and this can pose a strangulation hazard to children. If a child’s head or neck gets caught in the lid while it’s closing, they can be suffocated.
Pinching: Toy chests with hinges can also pose a pinching hazard to children. If a child’s fingers get caught in the hinge while the lid is closing, it can cause serious injury.
Toppling: Toy chests that are not properly balanced or secured to the wall can topple over and injure children. This is especially true if the child climbs on top of the toy chest.
Risk Factors
There are several risk factors associated with toy chests that can lead to accidents. These include:
- Strangulation: Children can become entangled in the hinges or lids of toy chests, which can cut off their air supply and lead to suffocation.
- Pinching: Fingers and hands can get caught in the hinges or lid of a toy chest, causing painful pinches or even fractures.
- Falling: Toy chests can tip over if not properly anchored to the wall or placed on a stable surface, causing serious injuries.
- Choking: Small toys or other objects can become lodged in a child’s throat if they are left in the toy chest.
- Cuts and bruises: Sharp edges or corners on the toy chest can cause cuts and bruises if a child falls or runs into them.
Prevention Tips
To prevent accidents and keep your child safe, here are some tips to follow:
Choose the Right Toy Chest
When selecting a toy chest, look for one that is sturdy and made of high-quality materials. It should be large enough to hold all of your child’s toys but not so large that it becomes difficult to move or store. Avoid toy chests with sharp edges or corners that could cause injury if a child falls or runs into them.
Install Safety Features
Make sure the toy chest has safety features such as a slow-closing lid or a lid that stays open in any position. This will prevent the lid from slamming shut and pinching a child’s fingers or hands.
Anchor to the Wall
If possible, anchor the toy chest to the wall to prevent it from tipping over. This is especially important if your child likes to climb on or play around the toy chest.
Supervise Play
Always supervise your child when they are playing with toys from the toy chest. This will ensure that they are not putting small objects in their mouth or playing in a dangerous manner.
Store Small Objects Separately
Store small toys or other objects separately from the toy chest to prevent choking hazards. If they are left in the toy chest, make sure they are stored in a separate container or bag to avoid accidental ingestion.
Keep Lid Open When in Use
Keep the lid of the toy chest open when in use to prevent suffocation. If your child is playing with toys from the toy chest, make sure the lid is propped open or removed completely.
Teach Your Child Toy Chest Safety
Teach your child about toy chest safety and how to use it properly. Let them know the potential dangers and how to avoid them. This will help them develop safe habits and prevent accidents.
A toy chest can be a great addition to your child’s playroom or bedroom, but it is important to use it safely. By following these tips, you can prevent accidents and keep your child safe. Remember to choose the right toy chest, install safety features, anchor it to the wall, supervise play, store small objects separately. Keep the lid open when in use, and teach your child about toy chest safety. With these precautions in place, your child can safely enjoy their toys and playtime.
