Children and young adults who use bunk beds should be concerned about the related injury risks associated with these high rise bedding choices.
Of all the reported bunk bed injuries each each, 75% of the children are 10 years old and younger. In recent years, the surprising rise in injuries in young adults (those between 18 and 21) has led researchers to look more closely at the risk factors surrounding bunk beds.
The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital looked into the 36,000 cases of reported bunk bed injuries to find a commonality or concern. According to their findings, young adults between the ages of 18 and 21 tyears old were twice as likely to be injured using a bunk bed than their 14 to 17 year old peers.
Researchers noted the fact that the increased numbers may be due to the fact that college dorms and the military both utilize bunk beds. The older children injured may also have been injured due to their higher weights and larger size compared to their younger counterparts.
In further examination of the cases reported, it was found that children under the age of 3 were 40% more likely to suffer from head injuries related to a bunk bed than any other sector of the population.
In order to prevent the possibilities of injuries, researchers suggest:
- Use safety rails on both sides of the top bunk.
- Make sure the gaps in the bars are no more than 3 ½ inches apart.
- Check the mattress and foundation often for security.
- Utilize the proper sized mattress for the bunk bed set.
- Do not allow children under the age of 6 to sleep on the upper bunk.
- Use night lights to improve the child's vision and reduce risk of falls.
- Do not place bunk beds near ceiling fixtures.
