Many running dads and moms have treadmills in their homes so they can run without having to worry about getting a babysitter. But treadmills can be a danger around children, especially very young ones. Boxer Mike Tyson's 4-year-old daughter is on life-support and in "extremely critical condition" after she was discovered yesterday hanging from a treadmill cable in her family's home. [5/27 UPDATE: Sadly, Exodus Tyson died Tuesday evening as a result of the accident.]
The accident is a tragic reminder that parents need to take important precautions if they have a treadmill at home. Treadmills can be a tempting toy to kids, who may try to play on it when it's in use or turned off. If you have young children and a treadmill, be sure to follow these safety measures:
- Block access to the treadmill. Try to keep the treadmill in a room with a door that locks, so you can keep the kids out when you're not around. If that's not possible, use baby gates to keep little ones from getting near it.
- Remove the safety cord. Most treadmills won't work without the safety cord, so when you're not using the treadmill, put the cord somewhere your kids can't reach.
- Know exactly where your kids are when you're on the machine. Many treadmill accidents happen when kids' hands get caught in the back of the machine. When I use my treadmill at home, I try to do it when my little ones are sleeping. If your toddlers are awake when you're running, keep them in a playpen or surround the treadmill with a baby play yard.
- Store it safely. When not using your treadmill, unplug it and fold it up. But also make sure you secure it safely, as folded treadmills can be a tip-over hazard.
Good points. I read about this story and thought some of the same things. My children were always wanting to play on treadmills and it always scared me!