Did you know the first full week of April is National Window Safety Week? The Window Safety Task Force in partnership with the National Safety Council created National Window Safety Week. Why April? It is no coincidence as spring weather arrives, people open their windows to let that fresh air in their homes. Thus, the risk of window falls or injuries for children may increase. In addition, National Window Safety Week is a good reminder of how windows may be used in a family’s fire escape plan.
These tips provided by the Window Safety Task Force and National Safety Council encourage parents and caregivers to observe window safety not just during the first week of April, but throughout the year:
- 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.
- Avoid placing 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 or window guards (with quick-release mechanisms in case of fire or other emergency) to help prevent a fall.
- Teach your child how to safely use a window to escape during an emergency, such as a fire.
More window safety tips can be found at www.nsc.org/windowsafetytaskforce, including an activity book for children. Have a safe spring!