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Open windows pose a danger to any young children who are not properly supervised. While the number of falls from windows is generally small compared with other recorded child injuries, a window incident can result in serious injury or possibly even death. Each year, about eight children under age 5 die from falling out a window, and more than 3,300 are injured seriously enough to go to the hospital.
To protect children, the Window Safety Task Force offers the following eight safety tips:
- When young children are around, keep windows closed and locked.
- When opening a window for ventilation, use those located out of a child’s reach. For example, the upper sash of a double hung window.
- Avoid placing furniture near windows to prevent young children from climbing.
- Don’t allow children to jump on beds or other furniture to help reduce potential falls.
- Don’t rely on insect screens to prevent a window fall. Insect screens are designed to keep bugs out, not to keep children in the home.
- Supervise children to keep child’s play away from windows, balconies or patio doors. Keep play in the center of a room, if possible.
- Install code-compliant devices designed to limit how far a window will open or window guards (with quick-release mechanisms in case of fire) to help prevent a fall.
- Teach your child how to safely use a window to escape during an emergency, such as a fire.
