Window Safety

Falls from windows result in an average of about eight deaths every year to children five years or younger according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). "CPSC: Parents, Caregivers Should Consider Safety Before Opening Windows," CPSC (Apr. 8, 2011).

An estimated 3,300 children in the same age range are treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments each year. On average, one of every three children, or approximately 34 percent, requires hospitalization after falling from a window.

Commentary

Deaths and injuries most frequently occur when children push themselves against window screens or climb onto furniture located next to open windows. These incidents increase dramatically during the spring and summer months.

In many cases the deaths and injuries are preventable.

The CPSC provides safety tips for parents and caregivers to help prevent open window injuries and deaths:

• Safeguard your children by using window guards or window stops. Install stops so that windows open no more than four inches.
• For windows on the 6^th floor and below, install window guards that adults and older children can open easily in case of a fire.
• Never depend on screens to keep children from falling out of windows.
• Open windows from the top instead of the bottom whenever possible.
• Keep furniture away from windows to discourage children from climbing near them.
• Check local regulations. Some jurisdictions require landlords to install window guards.