Too much T.V.

Experts Warn of Dangers to Kids from Falling TVs
By Tovleeyah B. Israel-KNN Staff

The Consumer Product Safety Commission is sounding the alarm about an increase in childhood injuries caused by falling television sets and other furniture. TV and furniture "tip-over" accidents normally cause about five deaths a year, according to statistics from the Consumer Product Safety Commission. But so far this year there have been 10 children killed nationwide. Kristine Biggie, a trauma nurse at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, says her emergency room sees several serious cases a year: "Think how heavy a TV is when you lift it up, or a bookcase that can fall on them. It can cause severe crushing injuries, like severe brain damage, broken bones, internal organ injuries." She urges parents to put heavy TVs on low, well-built furniture, and to secure the cords and bolt rickety furniture to the wall so it can't topple over. And, she adds, make sure inviting toys aren't left on top of the TV, which could entice a young child to climb on top. (Original article written by KYW's Lynne Adkins)