Most think of the treadmill as something that promotes healthy living and longevity, but after recent headlines about Mike Tyson’s four-year-old daughter’s deadly accident, some are questioning the safety of them in homes around kids.
According to the February issue of Consumer Reports, treadmills pose special risks to toddlers and young children, and account for the greatest percentage of serious injuries. In fact, according to the article, emergency rooms around the country are reporting a growing number of severe burns on the hands and fingers of young children who reach down or under and touch the treadmill belt when it’s running.
Consumer Reports recommends keeping kids away from equipment when it’s in use. And, when it’s not, unplugging the machine and, if possible, locking it up entirely.