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:
Guardian
Angel Deluxe Window Guard, Small 17-23"
Item # 1723
Window
Guard, Small 14"-24"
Item # 1010
Kidco
Safeway Window Guard, 24 3/4" to 43 1/2"
Item # 2220W
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:
Sliding Door and Window Lock, 2 pk.
Item # 2005
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.
Example:
Cord Wraps, 12 pk.
Item # 330
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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