How To Ensure Your Windows Are Safe For Children

Window safety is a top concern among parents of young children, and with increased awareness and improved guidelines for safety measures, infant and toddler accidents are on the decline. Your curious toddler may be eager to explore, and keeping him or her safe presents with the new challenges at each developmental phase. Whether you live in a downtown high rise or a two story house in suburban Parker, it’s important to make window safety a priority. Apart from keeping windows locked in your child’s room and throughout your home, there are steps you can take to make sure your windows are safe.

The Quality of Your Windows Matters

Making sure the windows in your home adhere to building code and meet the regulations for your property is the first step in window safety. The quality of the product and the expertise with which it’s installed is vital to not only your toddler’s health and safety, but to your whole family as well. Proper installation of windows helps prevent injuries, fire-safety issues, mold and heat loss.  If you’re installing new windows, it’s important to work with a contractor who prioritizes quality control and takes time to perform a careful inspection. Identifying a faulty product before it’s installed can help protect your family.

Installing Window Guards and Other Barriers

When the weather is pleasant, you’ll want to find ways to keep your windows safe while still letting in some fresh air. When possible, always open your windows from the top, and leave no more than 4.5 inches of open space. Many apartment buildings owners are required to install window guards, which consist of metal bars that fit over windows and are tested to withstand the force of a child’s weight. Windows may also be fitted with a lock or latch that will not allow them to open more than a few inches. You can purchase window guards to install yourself if you own your home. Mesh guards can be effective, easy to install and aesthetically discreet. It’s important that guards are properly installed to fit the size and style of the windows in your home.

Choose Cordless Window Treatments

In addition to preventing falls, there are steps you can take to prevent the risk of injury from pull cords and loose drapes. Cordless blinds and shades are the safest option for homes with small children, as they eliminate the safety risk of entanglement that dangling cords present.  However, if you do choose corded blinds, make sure the cord is not looped and if it is, cut it. You can also purchase small fixtures that attach to your wall and allow you to wrap and secure the excess cord so that your child cannot pull it.

By Being Aware, You’re Taking an Important Step

Windows may be a point of fascination for your child, and spending time together, looking outside and enjoying the view can help reduce your child’s temptation to explore windows alone. While there are countless safety devices available, parental supervision is the most valuable tool for preventing accidents. Guiding your child away from dangerous situations and beginning to help him or her understand safety rules is the best protection in the long-run. However, it may be some time before your child understands the risks of certain behaviors, and until then it’s important to create as safe an environment as possible.