Falls from windows are more common than people might 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.
The Window Safety Task Force offers these tips to help protect children from accidental window falls:
- 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
- Supervise children to keep child’s play away from windows, balconies or patio doors
- Don't place furniture near windows that young children can climb on to gain access
- Don’t allow children to jump on beds or other furniture to help reduce potential falls
- Don’t rely on insect screens; they are designed to keep bugs out, not to keep children in
- Install ASTM F2090-compliant devices that limit how far a window will open, or window guards with quick-release mechanisms in case of fire or other emergency
- Teach your child how to safely use a window to escape during an emergency, such as a fire
Take 5 Minutes to Install Window Guards
Source: nsc.org
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