Shopping cart safety
Across the country, nearly 66 children are treated in emergency departments every day for shopping carts related injuries.
Shopping cart related injuries to children are common and can be severe or even result in death. Most of the injuries occur from falling out of the shopping cart or the shopping cart tipping over. These incidents can result in injuries to the neck and head. Some safety tips include:
Select the Best: Before placing items in the cart, inspect it for:
- Loose parts, sharp edges, or defects. Ensure the wheels are working properly, and the cart is stable, not wobbly.
- Use a cart that has a child seat that is low to the ground.
- Find a cart with a child seat, preferably with a child safety harness.
Place Correctly: Only place children in the shopping cart seat. The bottom, the outside and the basket are not safe places for children to ride.
Supervise Children in the Cart at all times: Never leave children unattended in the cart and stay with the cart at all times. If your child is sitting in the cart, make sure they are properly seated and secured in the child safety seat if available. Make sure your child remains seated and avoids letting children stand or play in the cart.
Don’t Overload the Cart: Avoid overloading the cart to ensure it remains stable and easy to maneuver. A heavy cart can tip over if pushed too quickly or if the load is uneven.
Push, Don’t Pull: Always push the cart from behind, not pull it. This ensures better control and prevents the cart from tipping or causing injury.
Use the Child Safety Harness: If your cart has a child safety harness, always use it when your child is in the seat. It keeps them secure and prevents accidents.
Place Items Safely: Avoid placing large, heavy items at the top of the cart, especially near the handle. This can make the cart top-heavy and increase the risk of tipping.