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 has in the past sent out a press release pointed out the following tips:

• 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.

New York City has set up a whole program to prevent these tragedies.

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.

Be safe and check those windows.