I recently invited Allison Rhodes aka “The Safety Mom” to my friend’s home to do a mom-safety evaluation.  I reported on her findings on the “Today” show and want to share them will parents everywhere.

1. 1000 children under the age of 14 die from strangulation accidents each year according to Boston Children’s Hospital.  That means you need to check window shade cords to make sure they are not dangling and accessible to little ones.  Also check for cable cords and wires and have them tacked to the wall.
2. 25,000 children under the age of 14 are injured on treadmills, stationary bikes and stair climbers every year according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.  Mike Tyson lost his daughter to a treadmill accident.  You need to keep your gym equipment locked up and “off” when no one is supervising.
3. Flat screen TV’s easily tip over and can injure a child.  Accidental tip overs have risen 41% over the last 10 years. The Safety Mom says an easy fix is using Velcro underneath the set to keep it in place.
4. Make sure hand-me-down equipment is in good shape and has not been recalled.  Be especially careful with older car seats and cribs.
5. Position your furniture carefully.  Make sure your child cannot climb on a piece of furniture near a window.
6. There is no substitute for parental supervision