Window Safety Week aims to prevent child deaths

Itasca, IL — The National Safety Council and the Window Safety Task Force, a coalition of multiple safety organizations, are teaming up for Window Safety Week – an annual campaign to raise awareness about deaths and injuries related to children falling out of open windows.

Set to take place April 4-10, the initiative aims to help families safeguard against window falls. According to data from Safe Kids Worldwide, nearly eight children 5 or younger die each year from falling out a window, while 3,300 suffer injuries requiring hospitalization.

“Because of the pandemic, families are sheltering in place and children have been home from school, meaning the risk for window falls increases,” Angela Dickson, Window Safety Task Force co-chair, said in a press release.

Among the task force’s recommendations:

• Keep windows closed and locked when young children are present
• Use windows located outside a child’s reach when opening a window for ventilation.
• Avoid placing furniture near windows.
• Don’t let kids jump on beds or other furniture.
• Don’t rely on insect screens to prevent a window fall.
• Supervise children and keep play away from windows, balconies and patio doors.
• Install window guards or ASTM F2090-compliant devices that limit how far a window will open.

NSC offers numerous online resources, including a window safety brochure, checklist and children’s activity book.