Safe In 60: Take Precautions To Prevent Window Injuries

COTTONWOOD HEIGHTS, Utah – Autumn is a perfect time to leave the windows open and enjoy the breeze. But if you have small children, be sure to take precautions to keep them safe.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, more than 5,000 children are injured or killed each year in the U.S. by falling from open windows. That’s an average of 14 a day.

Preschool aged children are at highest risk, accounting for two-thirds of window falls. They are often more curious and don’t understand the dangers of falling from a window.

Screens are only there to keep bugs out – they are not strong enough to hold the weight of even a small child.

Here are some safety tips to remember if you have small children in your home:

• Keep windows on upper levels closed and locked or use a latch or wedge to keep the window from opening more than four inches.
• Consider installing window guards. Like baby gates, the bars can be put in an open window to prevent a child from falling.
• Keep furniture away from the window to prevent children from climbing to reach it.
• If you have blinds, don’t forget to secure the cords out of your child’s reach.

Just as we teach our children about stranger danger or staying out of the street, don’t forget to teach them about window safety.