Furniture and television tip-overs can happen quickly, especially where children visit. This checklist helps you identify common risks and prepare for a proper anchoring project. It does not replace the furniture, television, or anchor-kit manufacturer’s instructions.
Start with the highest-risk items
- Dressers, bookcases, shelves, armoires, and other top-heavy furniture.
- Televisions placed on stands or furniture.
- Freestanding kitchen ranges and stoves.
Make the room less climbable
- Keep toys, remotes, and other tempting items off high furniture and TV stands.
- Store heavier objects on lower shelves or in lower drawers.
- Place TVs on sturdy, low furniture designed to hold them; push a set back as far as its support allows.
- Keep cords out of children’s reach where practical.
Anchor carefully
Use the anchoring hardware and instructions supplied for the furniture or TV, and follow all manufacturer directions. CPSC guidance emphasizes anchoring furniture and TVs to a wall or floor as directed. If you are unsure about the wall type, stud location, hardware, or weight rating, consult a qualified installer rather than improvising.
After moving or buying furniture
- Check whether anti-tip hardware came in the box.
- Install it before the furniture is put into regular use.
- Recheck anchor points after a move, remodel, or major furniture rearrangement.
- Keep manuals and hardware information with your household records.
Source notes
CPSC’s Anchor It guidance recommends securing TVs and furniture, using sturdy supports, following instructions, and removing climb temptations. Its childproofing guide also addresses anchoring ranges with anti-tip brackets. Confirm the instructions for the particular item in your home.