All about window safety

If you’re a parent or caregiver, you know that hazards in the home can injure kids – sometimes seriously.

Windows are part of that group.

Each year, 3,500 to 5,000 children in the United States are hospitalized after falling out of a window, Safe Kids Worldwide says. And statistics show that eight others die after getting tangled in window treatment cords.

These injuries are preventable. Let’s learn how.

ACTION: Supervise kids around windows.

Ideally, all windows would stay closed and locked when young kids are present. That may not always be possible, though. If you must open a window, pick one that’s out of kids’ reach. And always keep a close eye on them while that window is open.

Another good idea? Keep furniture away from windows. If young children are able to climb up onto a couch positioned in front of a window, they’re at risk of a fall.

ACTION: Say ‘no’ to jumping.

Don’t allow kids to jump on beds or couches – especially if you have furniture positioned near a window. It’s too risky.

ACTION: Use window guards.

Install window guards on all windows in your home. These safety devices stop windows from opening more than 4 inches. And don’t count on window screens for protection. They’re designed to keep bugs out – not kids in. They just aren’t strong enough to stop a child from falling.

ACTION: Plant shrubs and soft edging such as grass (or place wood chips) beneath windows.

If the unthinkable should occur, having landscaping planted outside and under each window may help lessen the impact of a fall.

ACTION: Install cordless window treatments.

Window treatments that have cords or pulls are a strangulation risk. Thanks to a safety standard that went into effect in 2024, all custom window coverings need to be cordless or have inaccessible cords. (A standard for stock window coverings has been in place since 2018.) If you have corded treatments but you’re not able to replace them, you can order a free retrofit kit through the Window Covering Safety Council. Go to windowcoverings.org to learn more. While you wait for the kit, you should:

• Move all furniture and toys away from windows that have cords.
• Make sure any tasseled pull cords are positioned as short as possible.
• Permanently anchor – to the floor or wall – any continuous-loop cords.
• Eliminate all dangling window cords.
• Check that cord stops are properly installed and adjusted to limit the movement of inner lift cords.

ACTION: Make safety rules – and stay firm about them

Clearly explain to your kids why you don’t want them playing near windows. You may have to repeat the message many times to make sure they understand. Then: Follow through with rules about not playing near open windows.

The National Safety Council has a window safety workbook that can help. Download and print it.