Spring is here, which means the Window Safety Task Force, in partnership with the National Safety Council, encourages parents and caregivers to recognize the importance of practicing window safety during Window Safety Week, being observed April 2-8. However, open windows any time of year can be dangerous for young children who are not properly supervised.
Each year, the Window Safety Task Force, comprised of members representing the Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance and the Window & Door Manufacturers Association, takes the first full week in April to educate on the importance of practicing window safety year-round. Annually, about eight children under age five die from falling out a window, and more than 3,300 are injured seriously enough to go to the hospital, according to Safe Kids Worldwide.
Window safety tips for children
To protect children, the Window Safety Task Force offers the following 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.
- Don’t place furniture near windows to prevent young children from climbing and gaining access to an open window.
- 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.
- Install ASTM F2090-compliant devices designed to limit how far a window will open to help prevent a fall.
“Most people look forward to the warmer weather that comes in spring, providing the opportunity to enjoy fresh air through open windows,” says Angela Dickson, co-chair of the Window Safety Task Force. “However, to avoid accidental falls, the task force urges those in the industry to share window safety tips to keep children safe, post tips on your website and share via social media to help spread the word. These simple steps could save a life.”
