Window safety is a paradoxical thing. On one hand, it is vital that you leave windows accessible and open so that they can serve as escape routes in case of a fire or other dangerous situations. On the other hand, falls from windows present a serious safety risk to children under 10, especially on upper floors in homes and apartment buildings. That said, the proper level of safety when it comes to windows is a smart mix of common sense, childproofing, and making sure you have clear escape routes everywhere in your home.
Window Safety and Children
Making sure your windows are safe should be your first order of business if there are children in your home. According to the Consumer Safety Council, every year 10 children die and 4,000 are injured by falls from windows. The sad thing is that almost every one of these incidents could have been prevented if the homeowners would have taken proper safety measures to begin with. Window guards, window stops, and window wedges can all be installed on windows to make it nearly impossible for children to fall out. Other cautionary steps you can take include installing double sash windows so you can open windows at the top rather than down where children often play, and putting your foot down when it comes to allowing rough play near or around areas where windows are present.
Window Safety and Escape Routes
Of course, keeping kids in is only part of safe window practices. Your windows also provide valuable, life-saving escape routes in case of fires or other natural disasters. That being the case, it's also important that you take accessibility into account when you childproof. Only install window guards on windows that you open on a regular basis, and look for window guards with easy release latches so they can be removed quickly in case of an emergency. The same goes for window stops and wedges. While these childproofing techniques can save your child's life when it comes to potential falls, they can also be deadly obstacles that trap you inside in the event that you need to flee.
Basic Window Safety Suggestions
Following the guidelines set forth above is only the beginning when it comes to window safety. Here's a few other suggestions to consider as you work to bring safe window practices in your home.
Screens Don't Prevent Falls! Don't rely on screens to keep your children in. While they're effective for keeping bugs out, they're not built to withstand the pressure that even a small child can place on them.
Develop an Emergency Escape Plan. Planning emergency escape routes is a must do, regardless. However, working out escape routes ahead of time also helps you to determine which windows are important to leave accessible as you prepare to install childproofing measures such as window stops, wedges, and gates.
Keep Windows Furniture Free! Never place furniture next to windows, especially on upper floors, since children can climb up on them and get to windows that would otherwise be out of reach. Be especially careful of beds, and never let kids jump on them when windows are close by.
Landscaping can Save Lives. Planting shrubs that can cushion a fall beneath windows can be the difference between a scary fall and a trip to the hospital for your child. In fact, even softer surfaces such as wood mulch or grass can make a difference if someone takes a tumble.
While installing and implementing window safety measures is something that most homeowners can accomplish on their own, there are contractors that specialize in childproofing and home safety measures at your disposal. For many homeowners with busy schedules and limited time, hiring an expert is the best way to ensure window safety becomes a priority in their home.
Matt Goering, formerly a carpenter and house painter, is a freelance writer for the home improvement industry who has published over 600 articles.
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