WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT . . .
CHILDPROOFING WINDOWS
In
warm weather when our windows are open to the sights, sounds and fragrances of
summer children may climb onto furniture or window sills and lean against
screens to get a closer look at the world. Although window screens will not
support the weight of a child who pushes against them, there are safety devices
you can install that will help prevent falls.
TYPES AND STYLES OF WINDOW SAFETY PRODUCTS
Window Guards
Window
Guards offer the best protection for young children and can be found in a
variety of styles and colors. They prevent entry or exit while allowing you to
keep your windows open. Best suited for traditional style, double-hung windows,
they are recommended for windows above ground level. Window guards are designed
to fit windows from approximately 14" to 58" in width. If you have
crank-style or sliding windows, you’ll need window guards designed
specifically for these windows. When selecting and installing window guards,
remember to:
-
Select
child-safe window guards and not those designed for security purposes since
the spacing between bars is designed to protect tots from falls.
-
Designate
one window for fire escape and install a window device that will allow exit
in an emergency.
Examples:
Window
Latches and Locks
Window
latches and locks are available in many different styles. They are designed to
prevent windows from being pushed opened beyond a set distance (4" is the
maximum child-safe distance).
Example:
Safety Products for Window
Blinds
One
solution to childproof blind cords is to simply cut the cords so they are out of
your child’s reach. You can also use a cord wrap/cord cleat which screws into
the window frame and lets you manually wrap the excess cord around it. With
extra-long cords, two cord wraps can be installed approximately 4 inches apart
for quicker, easier wrapping. Another popular solution is an item that
automatically spools the extra cord inside a plastic case by just pushing a
button.
Examples:
Here
are a few safety tips that will also help prevent injuries:
-
Be
sure to designate one window as an emergency exit in case of fire and
install a window guard that can be easily removed by an adult if necessary
on this window.
-
If
you have traditional-style, double hung windows, make a habit of opening
them from the top. Keep the bottoms locked with a device that your child
cannot open, or install a safety device that will not allow windows to be
pushed open beyond a safe distance.
-
If
you have crank-style windows, you can remove the cranks so children cannot open the windows.
-
Keep
your window areas clear. This will help prevent tots from climbing on
furniture, toys and other items to reach windows.
-
Check
all blind cords to make sure they are out of your child's reach.
DOS AND DON'TS -
THE PROPER USE OF WINDOW SAFETY PRODUCTS
-
DO
examine
window areas carefully to make sure that children cannot climb on furniture
and place themselves in danger.
-
DO
check all your windows and secure any dangling cords from blinds.
-
DO
install
window guards if you plan on opening windows during the warm weather.
-
DO
select
child-safe window guards and not those designed for security purposes.
-
DON'T
rely
on window screens to prevent falls from windows. They cannot hold the weight
of a child who pushes against them.
-
DON'T
place
furniture near windows as this offers easy access for young children.
-
DON'T
leave
your child unattended, or rely on any safety item to keep your child safe.
The
information given and the products referred to can reduce the likeliness of
injury and are intended to help you provide a safer environment for your child.
The effectiveness of suggested products depends on proper installation and use.
There is no replacement for adult supervision.
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