Keeping widows open in houses with children can be quite dangerous, accidents happen, which can sometimes be even fatal, experts warn.
There are many news stories of children falling out of windows. A quick google search revealed reports of at least 10 such cases in the past month. These are news reports, in actual fact that number might be much higher.
In most cases children survive and some lucky ones are even caught by passers-by.
Bridget Boyd, a pediatrics safety expert at Loyola University Health System, says that windows can be awfully unsafe for children, especially young children. "One of the most important things we can do to help prevent falls is to never leave a child unattended by an open window. It may seem like a 'no brainer,' but even if you are gone for only a few minutes to answer the door or change the laundry, that can be enough time for a young child to fall."
In the U.S. more than 5,000 children are treated every year due to falls from window. Boyd suggested some important tips to follow for parents with young children.
1. Avoid placing furniture such as cribs, beds, changing tables, chairs, etc, near a window. This way children will not get any support to climb to the windows.
2. Always use window guards instead of screens. It will keep children safe when windows remain open. But make sure that the guard has an emergency release in case of fire.
3. If you are not too fond of the guards you may opt for window stops that open up to only 4 inches.
4. Do lock windows when not in use. Do not allow children to play on fire escapes, roofs or balconies.
5. If possible, maintain surfaces of shrubs, wood chips or grass under the windows. This may limit the impact if a fall does occur.
"Fresh air on a hot day is wonderful. Just make sure if there are children in the house that you have safety measures in place to keep them safe from a possible fall," Boyd said.
