Apr 9, 2008 11:22 pm US/Central
Guarding Kids For Accidents Around Windows
(WCCO)
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Seventy percent of all fall-related deaths occur in the spring and summer when people leave their windows open. (File)
CBS
According to the Minnesota Safety Council, an estimated 4,700 children under the age of 15 are treated in emergency rooms each year for injuries from falling out of windows. Seventy percent of all fall-related deaths occur in the spring and summer when people leave their windows open.
"Windows are meant to keep bugs out, not keep children in," said Peter Kerin, owner of Foresight Childproofing, Inc.
He said there are many common sense ways to keep children from falling by restricting their access to the window:
- Open kitchen windows instead of the ones in the bedroom to air out the home.
- Don't put toys or things kids can climb onto in front of the window.
- Block windows by large pieces of furniture.
Kerin also recommends low-cost options that prevent children from opening windows too far. Inexpensive window stops in the form of plastic wedges or suction cups can cost around $7. Several manufacturers make stops that are available online.
"Four inches is the magic number," he said, referring to how far the window should be open to children.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends window guards or bars. You can find several varieties ranging from $13 to $100 online by clicking here. It's also important to check that the devices are properly installed. Be sure at least one window in each room can be easily used to escape during a fire.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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