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Sturdy ladder construction
Make sure
ladder in well constructed and is firmly attached and bolted to
bed frame. Test it out with your own weight - if it moves around it is not safe.
Sturdy mattress support
A lot of injuries are caused by children in
lower bunks pushing up on
underside of
top bunk and dislodging
mattress or support frame. Ensure
top bunk has sturdy mattress supports that are secured to
bed frame with bolts or screws. You don't want a floating board support system, as these will move around and can possibly fall through
opening.
Repair and maintenance
Immediately replace or repair any loose or missing fasteners on
bed. Periodically check
tightness of fasteners holding
bed together, as well as
cross support rails holding
upper mattress.
Safe use
Teach your children not to push up on
underside of
bed, or to climb on it like a jungle gym. Proper safety is important at all times, and you may wish to also use a night light near
ladder so children can see
ladder steps in
dark.
If you follow these basic tips then you should get years of safe enjoyment out of your new bunk bed. For more bunk bed resources and tips you can visit http://www.loft-beds-bunk-beds.com/bunk-beds.htm

S.A. Smith is a freelance writer, contributor, and editor of the Loft Beds Bunk Beds resource site, and can be reached at http://www.loft-beds-bunk-beds.com