Windows and doors are two of the most important child safety concerns for your home.
Windows and doors are two of the most important safety concerns for your home. All too often they are overlooked when evaluating safety concerns around the home. Doors and windows can be lifesavers or a hazard depending on the situation. The correct balance can be achieved if you sit down and figure out your specific needs before an emergency situation arises.
Window Safety
For adults and older children, windows are important rescue and exit places during a fire. You must decide which window will be used for escape and make sure that it isn't blocked. It is also important to make sure the window isn't nailed or painted shut. Also consider putting landscaping under the escape window that can help cushion anyone escaping a fire.
Windows can be more of a hazard for young children. Always be sure to keep cribs, beds, and furniture that can be climbed away from the windows. Children can become entangled in window treatments or they can escape or fall out. Remember that a screen is meant to keep pests out it isn't build strong enough to hold your child inside. There are many safety devices such as window guards and safety netting that will allow you to safely open the windows (no more than 4 inches) for ventilation.
Another very big safety concern for your younger child is window treatments. The cords that are attached to blinds or shades are an entrapment and strangulation hazard. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Window Covering Safety Council urges parents and caregivers to eliminate the loop in two-corded blinds and shades. There are many devices available to retract the cords or you can visit the CPSC's website for detailed do it yourself instructions. You can also call 800-506-4636 to receive a free repair kit.
Door Safety
One of the most important things you can do, is to make sure that each door to the outside of your home is secured. You are securing it from intruders getting in but also from your younger children leaving without your knowledge. Safety handles for doors can be one of your most valuable tools. Sliding locks and chains placed high up on the door can usually keep the craftiest child from escaping or opening the door when you don't want them too. Lastly for fire safety, make sure all household doors are accessible and are in proper working order.
Sliding glass doors are a little different to secure than your average door. Devices are sold that keep thieves from breaking in and young children from breaking out. If you have a pool in the backyard, you might want to consider equipping the door with an alarm that beeps when the door is open. It is a good idea to place a decal at a child's eye level so that they don't run or walk into the glass doors.
All in all with a little planning securing your doors and windows isn't too difficult of a job. For windows, make sure they aren't blocked, painted or nailed shut. Check your treatments and deal with any cords that could be a strangulation hazard. Doors need to be in good working order. They also need to be latched and secured to keep your children in and strangers out.
