When spring arrived last year I watched my daughter and son-in-law install bars on their living room windows.
Their kids were at a stage where they simply loved to look out the window and watch the neighbourhood activities. And, of course, looking out meant leaning on the screen. So their parents decided to make it a safe activity for the kids. "There are not going to be stories about my child falling out the window," my daughter stated as she installed the bars. Every year, we read stories about children falling out of windows. It's a warm day, the windows are open and the child leans on the screen, which gives way causing the child to tumble to the ground. Remember that kids are curious and also love to climb. They can be strong enough to push open an unlocked window and they have no concept of the risk.
Kids start to climb before they can walk. They can pull themselves up on a chair, from there to a table and then they are leaning against the window. Screens are not strong enough to hold a child inside the room.
When kids are looking out the window they are not calmly sitting back taking in the scene. They are leaning forward, pointing to the dog across the street, straining to see what is making a whirring noise. They need good strong protection from the possibility of a fall.
It's easy to say that it's a good idea to move any household items or furniture away from windows but kids will find a chair they can push, crawl up on a table or go get a small stool so they can look out the window. It's much safer to make sure that with bars, window guards or locks that the windows are strong enough to withstand a child's curiosity.
It's also important to pay attention to balconies and decks. Move furniture or planters away from the edges so kids can't climb up and fall over. It's even safer to ensure that young kids are not alone on a balcony.
Make sure you talk to your kids about the dangers of opening windows or leaning against them. Window and balcony safety is an important part of child-proofing your home. Look at these spaces through the eyes of your child and never underestimate his ability to get onto the balcony or up against the window.
In the warm weather we are often more likely to leave the door open to create a crosswind. An open door is an invitation for an active toddler who wants to explore the world.
The other day I was in a backyard with some youngsters and their dad when we all realized that the back door to the garage was open as was the garage door. The toddlers could have easily run through the garage and out onto the street. It only takes a minute. We closed both the garage door and the back door and all was well.
Active toddlers require vigilance but if you create a safe environment you will all have a safe summer.
Kathy Lynn is a professional speaker and author of Vive la Différence, Who's In Charge Anyway? and But Nobody Told Me I'd Ever Have to Leave Home. If you want to read more, sign up for her informational newsletter at parentingtoday.ca.
