Kids, pets and treadmills

A moving belt can hurt little hands and paws in seconds. A few habits make it safe.

The big rules#

Remove the safety key after every walk and keep it out of reach.
Unplug it when you're done if children are around.
Keep kids and pets out of the room, or well away, while the belt is moving.
Never let a child play on or under a treadmill, running or not.

Pets#

Don't let pets lie behind or beside a running treadmill, and don't walk a dog on a human treadmill. Tails, paws and fur can catch in the belt or rollers.

Folding treadmills#

Make sure the lock clicks fully when folded, and that the deck can't fall. Children can be trapped underneath a deck that drops.

If something goes wrong#

Pull the safety key or hit stop first. For any injury involving a belt or roller, get medical help; friction burns can be deeper than they look.

Treadmill settings explained → Treadmill care →

Last reviewed October 30, 2026 · Updated November 1, 2026 · Sources · General information, not medical advice.

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