In the warm weather we are likely to have our windows and doors open.
Our naturally curious kids enjoy this. They love to watch everything that is going on in their world and that includes paying attention to the activity on the street.
When the weather is warm and our windows are open they press their little noses against the screen to watch the neighbour walking his dog, the woman next door mowing the lawn or the cool red motorcycle passing the house.
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.
An open window can be a serious safety hazard for young children unless we take precautions.
According to the B.C. Trauma Registry, between 2009 and 2015, 146 children were treated at trauma centres around the province after falling from a window or balcony.
Approximately 85 per cent of these hospitalizations involved children between the ages of one and six.
“We know it’s important to condo owners to ensure the safety, security and well-being of their family members, tenants and guests,” said Tony Gioventu, executive director of the Condominium Home Owners Association of B.C. “They should make sure their units are safe and free of hazards, especially when small children are involved. We encourage all owners to follow these tips to prevent window and balcony falls.”
Mind you, I would add, the same tips apply if you live in a house.
Don’t underestimate a child’s mobility; children begin climbing before they can walk.
Remember that window screens will not prevent children from falling through. They keep bugs out – not children in.
Install window guards on windows above the ground level. These act as a gate in front of the window.
Alternatively, fasten your windows so that they cannot open more than 10 centimetres (four inches). Children can fit through spaces as small as 12 centimetres (five inches) wide. In either case, ensure there is a safe release option for your windows in case of a house fire.
Don’t leave children unattended on balconies or decks.
Move furniture or planters away from the edges to keep the kids from climbing up and over.
I live on the 18th floor and we have the windows fixed so the kids can’t get through the opening.
Talk to your children about the dangers of opening and playing near windows particularly on upper floors of the home or in a highrise dwelling.
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 the 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 [email protected]
