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A Guide to Childproofing Windows
From covering outlets to securing kitchen cabinets, childproofing your home is an important undertaking when you have a baby. One aspect of a house that needs childproofing is the windows. Windows can pose a serious threat to children, so it is crucial to take the necessary precautions to make sure there are no accidents.
Here are a few tips for childproofing windows to make your home safer for your little ones:
Check Your Locks
The first step in childproofing your windows is to make sure your locks are in good shape. The easiest way to prevent your child from opening a window is by locking it. Do a pass through your house to ensure that every window is shut, locked, and secured. If any of your window locks need replacing, be sure to look for childproof locks.
Install Window Guards or Stoppers
If you live in a warm location where keeping your windows shut and locked at all times is not always an option, you can install window guards or stoppers. Window guards are metal grates that go across your windows to prevent your child from falling through and window stoppers limit the distance a window can open. These devices allow your windows to remain open to let in fresh air while giving you peace of mind that your kids will not climb out of them.
Clear the Area
Children love to climb, so having furniture or smaller objects near your windows can be dangerous. They can use the furniture or stack objects to form a ladder to get to the window. While it is not always possible to move all furniture away from a window, try to rearrange as many pieces as you can. Sometimes, moving furniture is all the childproofing you need because, without climbing, children cannot access high windows from the ground.
Add Padding To Window Sills
Window sills often have sharp corners that your child can bump their head on. For lower windows, you can add padding to the window sill to make it less of a hazard. The same corner cushions that are used on coffee tables can work to soften up the hard edges.
Secure Blind Cords
Securing long blind cords is essential for babyproofing windows. Blind cords are not only a choking hazard, but also pose the risk of your child tangling themselves. You can install a cord wrap that attaches to the wall next to your window to keep them out of reach.
Talk To Your Child About Window Safety
Much like we teach our children not to touch a hot stove and to look both ways before they cross the street, parents should talk with their kids about window safety. Telling your child it is not safe to play around windows because they could fall out will help them better understand the reasoning behind the rule. In addition, be consistent with enforcing the rule every time you catch your child breaking it so they understand the importance.
Upgrade Your Windows With Window World of Tucson
If childproofing your windows makes it clear that you need to upgrade them, Window World of Tucson is your go-to for window installation. We carry a variety of styles, colors, and shapes that will complement any type of home.