Windows can be hazardous.
- Window falls are more common than we may think. According to a report by SafeKids Worldwide, an average of eight children age 5 and younger die and more than 3,300 are injured each year from falling out of windows.
Safety Tips
- Keep windows locked when they are closed.
- Never let children open windows by themselves.
- If you must open windows, open them from the top.
- Prevent windows from opening more than four inches by installing window guards or window stops. Use our safety circle to check the window opening.
- In windows on the 6th floor and below, install window guards that can easily be removed by adults and older children in the event of a fire.
- Beware! Window screens may give you a false sense of security. They do not prevent falls.
- Teach your children not to lean out of or play near open windows.
- Don’t place furniture children may climb on near windows.
- Consider installing grass, shrubs or mulch under windows. They may help cushion a fall.
- Keep window covering pull cords out of the reach of children. Keep them up, out of the way, with a clamp or clothespin, cleat or tie-down device.
- Cords should not be doubled or form a loop. Each cord should have its own tassel.
- Replacement safety tassels are available free of charge at window covering retailers. Contact the Window Covering Safety Council at (800) 506-4636 for details.
