Until you become a parent, window child safety probably never occurred to you. However, windows need to be childproofed too! Research has found that more than 5,000 U.S. children and teens are injured each year in falls from windows, according to a study published in the journal Pediatrics. Studies such as these remind us of the safety risks that often aren’t considered with windows. An open window may pose a hazard to an unsupervised child and you can’t rely on insect screens, blinds or other window treatments solely to protect a child from a possible injury. Here are some valuable window child safety tips to review to help keep your kids safe.
Window Child Safety Tips
Childproofing Windows
Prevent window falls with these window safety features.
There are several options that can help protect children from falling out of windows. Window bars, child safety window locks, and child safety window guards are all options to increase child window safety. Alternatively they have recently come out with the option of installing window opening control devices or window guards that comply with local building codes. These window opening control devices will limit the opening to less than four inches to prevent fatal accidents. They should be quick and easy to release to allow for emergency escape.
Don’t rely on insect screens.
Insect screens are not designed to keep children from falling out of windows. Their presence is does not contribute to window safety for children.
Keep Furniture Away From Windows
Position beds and other furniture away from windows. Otherwise, children can quickly and easily climb to window ledges or sills and fall. If you need ventilation, open windows that children can’t reach.
Consider safety glazing for windows
Specify safety glazing, such as tempered glass, as an extra precaution for windows. Building codes require that all patio doors have safety glazing. Upon impact, this glass breaks into small chunks, rather than sharp pieces.
Keep blind cords out of children’s reach
The dangling cord from blinds can quickly become a choking hazard to a child playing with the cord. Keep cords out of reach of children or use cordless window covering options.
Talking To Your Kids Window Saftey
Talk About Window Safety With Your Child
During the summer and fall months, when the windows around the house are more prone to be open, is the time to recognize hazards and prevent injuries. What looks “normal” to an adult may be deadly to a child. Speaking to them about potential dangers should help them be more aware that it is a bad idea to play near windows.
You can download a free printable “Look out for kids” workbook at Andersen Windows (click that link and scroll down to the bottom of the page) so your kids can enjoy coloring while you remind them of window hazards and teach them to use proper window safety tips.
If young children live in your home, consider installing window guards on windows that are not required for emergency escape or rescue in a fire. Be aware that window guards must have easy release mechanisms so that they do not impede emergency escape and rescue. Consult your local fire department to determine proper window guard placement.
Don’t make the mistake of thinking accidents won’t happen to you. Eric Clapton’s son fell to his death which shows it is a real problem and it can happen to anyone. I hope you find these home safety tips useful for keeping your family safe.
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