Ironing boards are a common household item that can be found in most homes. They serve a useful purpose in pressing clothes and removing wrinkles, making them look neat and presentable. However, many parents may not realise that ironing boards can pose a potential hazard to their children. In this article, we will explore how children can be injured with an ironing board and provide some helpful tips on how parents can prevent such injuries.
Sit down when ironing to provide appropriate back support. If you have to stand to iron your clothes, make sure the table is at a comfortable height for you, and take pauses and walk about a little in between. Standing for long periods of time can cause lower back discomfort as well as stiffness in the neck and shoulders. These are some of the injuries that children sustain with an ironing board.
Pinched Fingers
One of the most common injuries with an ironing board is pinched fingers. Children are naturally curious and may try to play with the ironing board or fold it themselves, leading to their fingers getting caught in the hinges. This can cause significant pain and discomfort to you, prompting an immediate medical attention.
Burns
Ironing boards are typically used in conjunction with an iron, which can get hot and cause burns. Children can accidentally touch the hot surface of the iron or trip and fall onto the ironing board. This can result in burns that can be incredibly painful and may leave scars that can last a lifetime.
Tip-Over Accidents
Ironing boards can easily tip over, especially if they are not balanced correctly. Children can climb on them or pull on them, causing them to fall over and potentially cause injuries. This can be particularly dangerous if there are sharp or heavy objects nearby.
Strangulation
The cords used for irons can pose a risk of strangulation if left dangling or if a child gets tangled up in them. Parents should make sure cords are neatly tucked away and out of reach of children. Children are often fascinated by cords and may be tempted to play with them, leading to potential strangulation.
Preventing Ironing Board Injuries
Now that we have discussed the potential injuries associated with ironing boards, let’s talk about some tips for preventing them.
Store Ironing Boards Safely
When you’re not using your ironing boards, store them in a safe and secure place, out of reach of children. Ideally, they should be stored in a closet or other secure location where children cannot access them.
Secure the Ironing Board
Ironing boards should be secured in a way that prevents them from tipping over easily. Some ironing boards come with locking mechanisms that can be used to secure them in place. Alternatively, parents can use straps or bungee cords to secure the ironing board to a stable surface.
Supervise Children
Children should be supervised when ironing boards are in use. Parents should make sure children are not playing with the ironing board or the iron and keep them at a safe distance. Younger children should not be allowed to use an ironing board or iron without adult supervision.
Keep Cords Out of Reach
Iron cords should be kept out of reach of children, and parents should make sure that cords are not left dangling or in a position where a child could trip or become entangled. Cords should be neatly wound and stored away from the reach of children.
Conclusion
Ironing boards are a useful household item, but they can pose a risk to children if not used and stored correctly. Parents should be aware of the potential hazards associated with ironing boards and take steps to prevent injuries. By following the tips discussed in this article, parents can help keep their children safe and prevent accidents from happening. Remember, safety should always come first!
