Safety - Escalator Warning for Parents

By Hklbrries

Dear Ann Landers: Last year, my 4-year-old son's tennis shoe became trapped between the step and the sidewall of an escalator. He was standing next to my husband at the time. The impact pulverized his foot immediately, causing him to lose three toes and slicing the bottom of his foot. After two weeks in the hospital, seven surgeries, skin grafts, months in a wheelchair, a walker and walking casts, by the grace of God, he is able to walk again.

I thought my son's experience was a freak accident until I learned about a side plate that successfully prevents accidents of this type. I was shocked to learn, however, that not all escalators have these side plates because our government does not require them.

n 1994, the Consumer Products Safety Commission reported that 1,500 children under the age of 5 suffered from falls and/or the loss of fingers, toes and feet because of escalator-related accidents. Why have manufacturers chosen to ignore available remedies in favor of saving money when a child's safety is at stake? These side plates should be mandatory.

The next time you ride an escalator with a child, insist that the youngster stand in the middle of the step, pointing his or her shoes forward. Hold the child's hand, and be especially careful if the little one is wearing rubber-soled shoes.

Houston Mother

Dear Houston: You have written a letter that is sure to get the attention of every parent who rides an escalator with a child. Thanks for preventing some awful accidents.

Ingredients

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Details

Adapted from articles.chicagotribune.com

Preparation

Step 1

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