Summer is a season of fun in the sun and enjoying long days of relaxation. For parents with young children, summer also means preventing the dangers of window falls. Knowing how to keep kids safe near windows is of the utmost importance, especially when windows are open to let fresh air in. There are approximately 3,300 injuries from window falls in the U.S. each year in young children under the age of 5.
Given how easy it can be for active toddlers to find the right leverage to pull themselves up onto ledges, children aged 5 and under are at the highest risk of window falls. Some of the potential injuries children can sustain include intracranial injury, fractures, concussions, and internal injuries. Take a look at some of the ways you can prevent window falls for young children.
Scan for possible dangers.
The first step in preventing window falls is to take a good look around the home and scan for possible dangers. Pay attention to the positioning of furniture such as couches, chairs, tables, beds, bookcases, and toy chests. These should never be placed near windows, as they are tempting for children to climb.
Use safety bumpers and locks.
When windows are opened, they should have a maximum opening of four inches to prevent falls. Any wider opening will be large enough for an older baby or toddler to fit through. It’s a good idea to install removable window locks or guards to limit window openings to no more than four inches. Make sure that an adult can quickly remove the locks or guards in the event of an emergency. Windows should always be kept locked when not open.
Old windows aren’t always equipped with safety features to keep kids safe. At one point or another, homeowners replace their old windows for higher-quality products that are safer, more energy-efficient, and more durable. All-Weather Seal has a wide selection of vinyl replacement windows in Grand Rapids that enhance the appearance of your home while keeping the elements at bay. The general contractor is known for professional work, a lifetime guarantee on all products and services, and home improvement financing with credit approval. Their selection of new windows includes awning, bay, casement, bow, double-hung, energy-efficient, garden, hopper, picture, and slider replacement windows. The general contractor also offers a variety of home improvement services, including roofing, siding, patio doors, and fiberglass entry doors.
Screens don’t keep kids in.
Screens are designed to keep bugs and insects out of the house, and they aren’t durable enough to support the weight of a small child and keep them from falling through. Always supervise young children when they are around windows. The older they get, the more strength, dexterity, and curiosity they have. Even with the best safety plans and features in use, some kids can outsmart your prevention efforts.
Those who work in early childhood development understand the curiosities of developing minds and how to teach children in a way that they understand. Earning an associates in early childhood education prepares you for a fulfilling career providing high-quality educational experiences for children. The Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECE) program at the University of Cincinnati is a fully online degree program that emphasizes working with young children and families from culturally and ethnically diverse backgrounds. The online degree program is nationally ranked among the top 15 best online Associate in Early Childhood Education programs and offers students full-time and part-time options. Prospective students can choose between three areas of concentration, including preschool, infant and toddler, and administration. Earning an associate degree allows graduates to pursue careers as head-start teachers, preschool teachers, infant and toddler specialists, family child care providers, and program administrators in an early childhood setting.
Adopt smart window habits.
Windows that can open either from the top or bottom should always be opened from the top. Windows should be locked and closed when not in use, including patio doors. Teach children that there is a no-play zone around windows and restrict them from playing within a 2-foot radius of windows.
Keep these window safety tips in mind to enjoy a fun and safe family summer.
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