Ensuring the home is a safe place for children is of the greatest importance to parents. There are many areas throughout the home that need to be childproofed but let’s consider just one of those areas, windows. Falling is one of the main hazards for small children and, though most of the time they get back up unhurt, if the fall is from a height it will be a very different outcome. So, what should you do to make sure that windows are safe and secure for children?
There are several very simple low-cost ways to minimize the danger of a child falling from a window. One of the first things to think about is the way furniture is positioned in a room. You should never place furniture beneath a window or in an area where a child could climb up easily and open it. Depending on the child’s age and height, it may be possible for them to be able to reach a window without climbing on something. At this stage, it’s important to install childproof window latches. You will find there are many types to choose from, but they should permit an adult to easily open the window while at the same time stopping a child from doing so.
Window guards are another option available; these attach to a window frame preventing a child from being able to open the window. They typically have bars going across them, these should be spaced apart no more than 4 inches. Any wider than this and a child could get their head or other body parts trapped. Window stops are another child safety option that is designed to only allow a window to open to a certain width, which as in the case with window guards should be no more than 4 inches.
It’s important to note that screens will not protect against a child falling so even if your windows have these additional safety measures will still need to be taken. If you are anxious about child safety in your home, please feel free to contact us and we will be happy to make our recommendations.
