Window Safety Tips

Did you know the first full week of April is National Window Safety Week?

Spring is upon us in New England and that means you’re going to be cracking those windows open before you know it. However, windows don’t just let the fresh air in from outside. In fact, a window could be the cause of an emergency or, on the flip side, your lifeline in an emergency! 

 

5 Ways to Prevent Window Falls

1. Don’t Depend on Delicate Screens

Just because a screen can keep insects from getting in does not mean it can keep your child from getting out! Remember that the screens inside windows cannot support a child’s weight.

2. Keep Windows (with or without a screen) Closed Around Unattended Children

Children are curious about what is on the other side of the window. And we don’t blame them, especially when Spring and Fall roll around. Let their minds do the wandering and not their bodies by keeping windows (with or without a screen) closed when unattended.

3. Windows In A Child’s Reach Should Remain Locked

We know that children are going to run up to windows and press their hands and faces against it to see just what is out there. Keeping windows that are within their reach locked will prevent injuries.

4. Place Your Furniture Carefully

Even when it’s against Mom & Dad’s rules, kids can’t always fight the urge to jump or climb on top of the couch. Placing furniture away from windows (especially not placing it right underneath them) won’t allow children to climb up and potentially fall from an open window.

5. Think About A Child’s Play Area

Does your child’s play room have a lot of windows? Is it maybe too close to an outdoor patio or balcony? Think carefully about where the placement of windows are in reference to where your children spend a lot of time having fun.

5 Steps To Ensure Your Windows Are Part of Your Home Escape Plan:

1. Make Sure Windows Are Not Nailed or Painted Shut

2. Do Not Place Air Conditioners in a Window that May Be Needed for Escape

3. Make sure at least one window in each bedroom meets escape and rescue requirements

4. Develop & Practice Your Emergency Escape Plan

5. Keep Emergency Escape Ladders in bedrooms located on the 2nd or 3rd floors and teach everyone in the home how to use them.

 

*These safety steps are based on information provided by the official National Safety Council*