OUR TOP-TEN
WINDOW SAFETY TIPS

We have compiled a list of top ten window safety tips to guide you and your family

1	Supervise your children as they play
2	Teach your children not to play near windows
3	Close and lock your windows when children are around
4	Only open windows that children cannot reach or are secured with compliant locks
5	Keep beds, furniture, and anything a child can climb on away from windows
6	Do not depend on insect screens to prevent falls, they are not designed for this purpose
7	Repair broken windows or non-working parts as soon as possible
8	Open windows from the top, not from the bottom
9	Install child safety devices that comply with ASTM F2090-2008 and 2010 standards
10	Never leave young children unattended near open windows

In 2002 The State of Home Safety in America revealed that injuries associated with windows resulted in more than 110,000 emergency room visits in one year.

The consequences of a fall

The impact velocity increases with the height of the fall. A fall from the second floor results in an impact velocity of 22 mph, from the sixth floor, 31 mph, and from the eighth, 50 mph. Because of the relatively large size of the head, young children tend to fall head first, resulting in severe brain injuries.

Educate yourself on preventative measures

We urge you to educate yourself and your family on window safety and take the necessary precautions to save your children from devastating accidents that often result in permanent injury or death. This is a serious problem and we all need to work together to stamp it out.

The limitations of window guards

Window guards are sometimes a suitable means of protection but they contradict one of the most appealing aspects of windows - the ability to see through to the world outside. In jurisdictions requiring window guards, the common complaint is the occupant of the home or apartment will remove them shortly after moving in, to improve the view.

Windows can be a vital escape route in case of fire. It is important that the method you use to make your windows child safe does not impede a rapid exit in an emergency.

WINDOW SAFETY RESOURCES

Window Safety Video for your website Click here for options to view this video, get the link, emebed this video in your website or email it to a friend.

National Safety Council "The National Safety Council and the window industry has compiled some very useful information to help you learn about the potential risks of window falls in your home. There are simple, common-sense actions you can take to reduce these risks". Window Safety brochure

Minnesota Department of Health The Minnesota Department of Health website has the Home Safety Checklist and booklet available for download.

Minnesota Department of Education The Parents Know website has parenting and safety resources.

Boston Public Health Commission "In response to the ongoing tragedy of children falling out of windows, the Kids Can't Fly campaign educates communities about window falls prevention".

Home Safety Council Home and window safety tips from the Home Safety Council.