Keep kids safe around windows, balconies

Aug 24, 2023 | 3:23 PM

Opening windows and doors to balconies can help cool your home on hot days. It also creates a serious fall risk for children and can lead to tragedy.

Alberta Health Service says toddlers and pre-schoolers are at the highest risk of falling from a window or balcony but falls can happen at any age. So far this year there have been close to 45 emergency department visits due to window falls, says AHS.

The following tips from AHS can help prevent falls and other injuries:

Be aware of open windows. Screens are not strong enough to keep children in.
Move furniture such as cribs, beds, stools and change tables away from windows.
Install window guards on all windows on the second floor and above. These act like gates in front of windows. Ensure window guards have release mechanisms so it can be fully opened by an adult in case of an emergency.
Install safety devices that limit how wide a window can open to a maximum of 10 cm (four inches).
Remove outdoor furniture and other items stored on balconies and decks that can be used to climb, resulting in a fall over a railing. When spending time outdoors on balconies, supervise children at all times.
Ensure your balcony’s vertical railings are no more than 10 cm (four inches) apart.
Keep drapery cords out of the reach of children. Wrap excess cord around cleats, or tie-down devices placed high on the wall, to avoid a choking hazard.

Keep kids safe around windows, balconies

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