Even the most secure windows can become a safety hazard if you and your family aren’t careful. It’s important to keep these window safety tips in mind at all times. We’ve compiled a simple list of dos and don’ts that are sure to keep your family healthy, happy, and safe.
Out of Reach
If you need ventilation or want fresh air, open windows that children can’t reach. Children can quickly climb to window ledges or sills and fall.
Screen Safety
Do not rely on insect screens to prevent falls. They are designed to keep insects out of your home and they aren’t sturdy enough to withstand the weight of a person, no matter how small.
Limit Openings
Consider installing window opening control devices or window guards that comply with local building codes. When properly installed, these devices will limit the window sash to less than a four-inch opening. These devices have easy-release mechanisms that allow the window to fully open for an emergency escape or rescue.
Look Outside
Plant shrubs and soft edging like wood chips or grass beneath windows to provide a cushion in the event of a fall. A softer surface can greatly affect the degree of the injury sustained from a fall.