Each spring the National Safety Council observes Window Safety Week which is designed to heighten awareness for what parents and caregivers can do to prevent falls from windows and understand the role windows play in fire safety. With warmer weather is ahead, here are a few suggestions to keep your children and guests safe.
Window screens are designed to keep insects out rather than hold a child’s weight to prevent them from falling. Children should not be left unattended around open windows with or without window screens. Also, avoid placing furniture under windows that might allow a child to climb and potentially fall from an open window. You might consider purchasing window opening control devices from the window manufacturer that are designed to limit how far a window can open but have a release to allow for escape in case of emergency. Finally, planting shrubs or grass beneath a window will lessen the impact if a fall does occur.
If you have wood windows, make sure they are not painted or nailed shut. While doors are the primary exit during a fire, windows are designed to be a secondary exit. Make sure they open properly in case of an emergency. It’s also a good idea to train your children how to escape from a window if needed.
Installing window air conditioners is common however keep in mind these windows may be needed for escape in case of a fire. Always be sure that you have at least one window in each bedroom that meets local codes for escape and rescue. Also, some homes have window guards or security bars in place. Ensure these guards are equipped with functioning release mechanisms to allow you to exit in case of emergency.
Please contact us or visit a showroom in Albany or Corvallis for more information