How a Coffee Table Can Kill You
Have you ever stopped to think about the potential dangers of your beloved coffee table? Items as seemingly harmless as these can easily cause serious injuries or even death if used improperly. Here’s how this humble piece of furniture can have deadly consequences.
Falling
The primary danger of a coffee table is that of it falling on someone or something. Seemingly sturdy items of furniture can often become unbalanced, or sometimes tilt if several people lean on it at once. This can cause it to tip, potentially crushing someone beneath its weight.
Clothing or Hair
Another risk is that of clothing, toys or even hair becoming caught in the gap between the table and its shelf. The edges of a coffee table can sometimes be pointed or sharp, thus leading to nasty entanglements that can cause strangulation or cuts.
Flammable Materials
If your coffee table is made from materials that are flammable, such as wood or paper, it can be particularly dangerous. An accidental spark or stray cigarette can quickly cause a blaze and release lethal gases, such as carbon monoxide.
How to Stay Safe
To stay safe around coffee tables, it’s important to keep in mind the potential risks. Here are some tips to bear in mind:
- Secure your table: Make sure your coffee table is properly secured to a wall or other immobile item to prevent it tipping or slipping.
- Use properly sized furniture: Ensure you use furniture that is sized correctly in proportion to your space and the amount of people who use it.
- Be aware of gaps: Take particular care to avoid disturbing or pushing against tables that have sharp edges or gaps in them which could lead to entanglements.
- Avoid certain materials: Try to avoid using combustible materials in areas that are prone to smoke or sparks.
By following the advice above, you can ensure that you, your family and your furniture all stay safe and happy.
