A professionally installed and designed home theatre is a big investment, and one that must be protected from accidental damage and other mishaps. While a proper insurance policy is likely to cover many perils associated with your home theatre, there are many instances where you are unlikely to be covered or where the damage is more of an inconvenience than something worth claiming. The majority of accidents taking place in home theatres are associated with children gaining access to expensive electronics and high-end furnishings. Aside from causing an expense and inconvenience, some accidents can result in personal injury, an ER visit, and in some unfortunate instances, even a death.
Prevent Tip-Overs
Every year over 20,000 children under the age of 12 end up in the ER due to large household objects falling on them due to instability. The most common culprits are electric appliances. To avoid this type of incident in the home theatre it is important to make sure the television is properly anchored to the wall. A professional installation takes into account the size and weight of the television when deciding the type of anchors needed to ensure the highest levels of safety. Safety 1st Pro Grade TV Lock is a wise and affordable investment for your flat screen TV.
Keep Cords Out of Reach
The number of ER visits associated with electric cords is significantly high for children. From tripping to electrocution and strangulation, the risks are quite high. Ensuring the cords are out of reach and safely attached to walls is a smart way to reduce the chances of an accident.
Protect Your Components from Curious Hands
Consider placing small components with slots away from the reach of little ones. In addition to getting their hands stuck, they may also end up inserting foreign objects and damaging the delicate electronics that make your home theatre work. We’ve all heard the old story about the peanut butter and jelly sandwich in the VCR. If you have placed your components behind Plexiglas, it is possible that remote signals may not work to perfection. In that case consider investing in an exterior sensor.
Cover Outlets and Power Strips
This is a really easy and economical solution, and one that will save you from many headaches. If you have babies or toddlers at home, taking this extra measure is a non-negotiable. Sticking fingers in accessible outlets is not a matter of if but when. It can also help a pet from getting a jolt.
Keep it Off Limits
If your home theatre also serves as your man cave, and you have made a significant investment in great audiovisual technology, consider the good old-fashioned locked door. After all, your professionally installed home theatre is an investment that adds equity to your house, and it should be protected as such.
