BC Children’s Emergency Department has treated at least four children due to falls so far this spring.
Toddlers are especially vulnerable to window falls because they are curious, love to climb and often don’t recognize when they are putting themselves at risk.
Tips to keep kids safe:
- Window screens will not prevent children from falling through. Install window guards or fasten windows so that they can’t open wider than 10 cm. Children can fit through spaces as small as 12 cm wide. Just make sure there’s a safety release in case of fire.
- Move household items away from windows to discourage children from climbing to peer out. Toddlers may use anything as a step stool to get higher.
- Talk to your children (if they are old enough) about the dangers of opening and playing near windows, particularly on upper floors of your home.
- Don’t leave children unattended on balconies or decks. Move furniture or planters away from the edges as kids can climb up and over.
