Window Fall Safety for Kids

The National SAFE KIDS campaign reports that approximately 18 children ages 10 and under die each year in falls from windows. They also report that another 4,700 children age 14 and under will need treatment for injuries due to window fall related injuries.  

All windows within in a home should be child-proofed for window falls. The window screens should not be counted on to prevent falls as they are often flimsy or easily dislodged. You should also remove all furniture near or under windows so that young children cannot use it for climbing to a window.

There are two main approaches for baby-proofing your windows. They are Window Stops or Window Bars.  Window Stops are used to limit a window from opening a window more than 4″, the maximum safe distance.  Window Bars are used on the inside of windows to block access to the window, and come in different sizes.  Both are effective deterrents. 

KidCo Window Stop

The KidCo Window Stop is a good example.

Guardian Angel Window Guard

The Guardian Angel Window Guards are the best made window bar protection available. There are other options available here.                

New Product: KidCo Mesh Window Guard

Mesh Window Guard

The KidCo S303 Mesh Window Guard is a great new alternative to the harshness of window bars.  It deters a child from playing with or falling through an open window, and blends in with window treatments.  Constructed of a metal frame and a sturdy fabric mesh.

• Adjusts to fit window sizes from 26″ to 40″ wide.
• Screws into window trim or wall beside window.
• Versatile mounting for single or double hung windows as well as sliding windows.
• It has a quick release if needed for emergency exit.
• Meets all ASTM safety standards.

Until now the only other option were window bars that can look harsh or institutional.

Window Falls Prompts CPSC to Issue Warning

With the arrival of the warmer spring weather, families across the nation are opening their windows to let the fresh air in. This pleasant feeling can quickly turn tragic in households with small children. In recent weeks, several children have fallen from windows. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission(CPSC) is warning parents and caregivers to take precautions to keep children from falling from windows.

“CPSC staff is aware of at least 18 falls from windows through media reports, including two deaths, involving small children since April,” said CPSC Acting Chairman Nancy Nord. “We are issuing this warning so parents will take the necessary steps to prevent these incidents from happening.”

These deaths and injuries frequently occur when kids push themselves against window screens or climb onto furniture located next to an open window.

From 2002-2004, CPSC staff received an average of 25 reports a year of fatalities associated with falls from windows. Children younger than five years of age account for approximately one-third of these reported fatalities. For all age categories, more males died from window falls than females.

To help prevent injuries and tragedies, CPSC recommends the following safety tips:

• Install window guards to prevent children from falling out of windows.
• Install window stops so that windows open no more than 4 inches.

• Never depend on screens to keep children from falling out of windows.

• Whenever possible, open windows from the top — not the bottom.

• Keep furniture away from windows, to discourage children from climbing near windows.

Window Wedge Video

►