Spring is in the air and that means people across the country are opening their windows and letting in the fresh air. It’s the perfect time to shine a light on window safety. The National Safety Council (NSC) has designated April 7 – 13 as Window Safety Week. It’s a reminder for people to think about safety around the windows in their home.
At West Shore Home, we install thousands of windows each year. Oftentimes, homeowners are looking to improve the energy efficiency of their windows and increase their safety and security, especially when there are children in the home. According to the NSC, over 3,300 children are injured every year from falling out of a window. Making sure your windows are safe and easily secured can prevent an accident or worse.
Here are some common window safety issues and tips.
Window Locks
If the locks on your windows aren’t functioning properly, that can present multiple problems. If they won’t open all the way, that can be a serious issue in the event of a fire. While your entry doors are usually the safest exit point in a fire, that is not always possible. Being able to open your window can be a lifesaver in a house fire. Make sure your windows aren’t painted or nailed shut.
Locks that work also provide another level of security between you and potential burglars.
Tempered Glass
Also known as safety glass, tempered glass breaks into small, dull pieces if there is an accident, decreasing the chances of injury. If a window or door is close to the ground, tempered glass can be used. This way if a child hits a toy or other object on the glass, it is less likely to break and cause injury.
Lead Paint
Many older homes have lead paint in the windows and windowsills. It is often buried under layers of new paint. Exposure can be very dangerous, potentially causing serious health issues in children. If you live in a house built before 1978, there may be lead paint in your home. Replacing your old windows can help. For more information on lead sources in your home visit the Environmental Protection Agency.
Screens
It’s important to teach children not to play around windows. Sometimes an open window with a screen can give a false sense of security. But screens are not built to sustain the weight of a child. Don’t leave children unattended near an open window with a screen. Make sure the window is shut or has window safety stops that allow you to open the window just enough for ventilation and decreases the risk of someone falling through.
