How to Child Proof Windows

Introduction:

Child proofing windows so children can’t fall out is critical for household safety. Hundreds of children are injured or lose their lives from falling out of windows every year. These types of home accidents can be prevented by taking a few precautions.  The first step in child proofing windows is to remove or rearrange furniture and other objects that a child might climb on to gain access to a window and second is to ensure that all windows have functional window guards or child proof window locks.

If a child has the will to get up to a window there’s probably a way he or she will figure it out. Whatever the child’s will, you can make reaching the window more difficult more in an attempt to dissuade them to seek other adventures. Rearranging furniture isn’t enough. The best way is to create a physical barrier so a child can’t fall out of the window. This can be done by installing a grill shield over the window frame or limit the window’s opening size to prevent a child from falling out.

Window screens alone as a barrier is not adequate. A child can lean against a screen and tumble through it. Blocking the openings with standard window grilles is probably the only sure way to prevent children from fallowing out of windows. However, be sure an adult or older child can release the grill barrier from the inside in the event of an emergency.

 The next best thing to child proof windows is to install locks on every window. The lock should be a durable safety lock that children can’t unlatch. There are dozens of different types of window locks available on the market but not all of them are safety locks.

Double-hung windows can be secured with ordinary sash locks that are usually too difficult for a child to unlatch. A better lock is a keyed sash lock. The key can be hung near the window well above a small child’s reach but where adults and older children can easily access it in an emergency.

Sliding windows and doors can be protected with a keyed lock that fastens onto the window track.  If you use a keyed lock, hang the key nearby where an adult can reach it in the event of an emergency.

Be aware that installing security and safety locks can often create other safety problems. Any window key lock should have the key immediately available in the event of an emergency. Grills that are installed over windows should have a quick release mechanism so that older children or adults can remove the grill in the event of an emergency.

A child’s safety is the parent’s responsibility. Don’t hesitate to child proof your windows. The action you take can prevent children’s injuries by falling from the windows. 

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