High Rise Windows Need To Be Child Proofed

Over time, we have been involved in a number of cases that involve small children falling out of upper story windows. The injuries are severe and at times can be fatal. The worse cases are those where there have been earlier warnings or complaints about the windows.

The Ramsey County Sheriff Department is trying to get ahead of the problem by warning all residents to test their windows. In spring of 2008 the department responded to three incidents, a 2-year-old’s death and two children seriously injured . Their press release pointed out the following:

• That screens be secure and children are not allowed to play near open windows.
• Chairs and other furniture should be moved away from windows so children can’t climb up and press upon the screens.
• If possible, open windows from the top, not the bottom.

Screens cannot be trusted to do the job alone. Screens are made to keep bugs out, not to keep children in. Review simple child safety products available. Most hardware stores sell child safety products and window stops which allow windows only to open a few inches past the sill. Window guards screw into the sides of the window frame. They need to be screwed securely into the window frame because guards that are simply spring-loaded can be easily dislodged by a child.