Image d'un enfant descendant de son lit | Image of a child getting out of bed

Bunk beds

10 January 2009

The Emergency Department of the Montreal Children’s Hospital sees approximately 40 children per year with injuries related to the use of bunk beds.  

Half of these injuries occur in children 4 years of age and younger. The injuries commonly seen include head trauma and broken bones. 8-10% of these injuries are serious enough to require hospitalization.

If using bunk beds, follow these prevention tips:

  • Follow the safety recommendations according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
  • Never place the bed next to a window, blinds and curtains with cords, ceiling fan or light fixture. 
  • Always use the safety rails on both sides of the upper bunk. Keep the safety rails on at all times, regardless of your child’s age. 
  • Children under 6 years of age should not sleep on the upper bunk.
  • Educate your child about the potential risks, such as fall from a height (which are common causes of injuries in children in general). Injuries can occur when your child is not only sleeping but also playing around or on the bed, or climbing down the ladder.

Reviewed by Trauma specialists at the Montreal Children’s Hospital.

Last updated: March 2020

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