Along with cribs, strollers, carriers and walkers, high chairs are one of the leading nursery product contributors to injuries of children under five years of age. In the year 2000 alone, nearly 8,000 injuries and 7 deaths were associated with high chairs, so it is appropriate to use caution when selecting and using one.
In short, high chair injuries and deaths have typically occurred when there is no adult supervision, safety straps are not present or safety straps are not used properly. An unrestrained child may become entrapped under the tray if he slides downward in the chair. Children also fall from chairs when they stand or when they push with their legs against a table or wall. Regardless of what type of chair you have or obtain, securely strap in your child every time and do not leave her unattended.
It is seldom appropriate to use an antique high chair. These tend to have a narrow base making them easy to topple. They often do not have safety straps or a crotch post. Finally, the trays may not lock securely or they may even have a "guillotine-like" over-the-head motion. So, if someone passes on an heirloom to you, graciously accept it, but do not feel obligated to endanger your child by using it.
Used (relatively new) high chairs may be perfectly appropriate to use. Whether new or relatively new look for the following features:
- JPMA Certification and ASTM F404 compliance;
- Wide and stable base;
- Easy to fasten safety straps and crotch post;
- Adjustable and lockable tray;
- No sharp edges or holes to trap small fingers.
Once you have selected an appropriate chair, be sure to:
- Securely strap in your child each and every time;
- Position the chair such that your child cannot push with their legs against walls or furniture;
- Securely lock the legs and tray into place;
- Prevent your child from standing in the chair;
- Do not leave your child unattended.
High chairs serve a vital function for parents and are arguably one of the most helpful products for parents with multiple children. Proper selection and careful use is key to preventing high chair related injuries and accidents. For even the "latest and greatest" high chair is merely a supplement to and not a substitute for supervision.