Dangling cords on window blinds is a lesser-known danger for children than other household hazards, but it is a topic that must be considered when purchasing blinds for a home with children present.
According to the Parents for Window Blind Safety advocacy group, a window covering is considered safe when all of its cords are inaccessible. Most blinds and shades offer a cordless option which means that no cords are exposed for young children to grab. It is important for everyone to know how window blinds can be a danger to young children, especially those under the age of 8. When the cords from window blinds become wrapped around a child's neck, he or she can lose consciousness in just 15 seconds. In 1-2 minutes, brain damage or death can occur. If this makes you sick to your stomach, use that feeling to take action.
Cordless Options
Lowe's Custom Blinds and Shades Store carries a variety of cordless blinds and shades. You must select the cordless option in order to receive a product without cords. The following blinds and shades are available with a cordless option with some exclusions:
Safety Proofing Your Existing Window Coverings
Industry experts and safety groups all agree that cordless window treatments are the safest option for homes where young children live or visit. However, if you don't have cordless blinds, you can still improve the safety of your existing blinds:
- Use a cord cleat to wrap the cord around so there are no low-hanging cords that can be accessed if a child were to reach for it or to stand on a piece of furniture like a couch or chair.
- Window cords need to be properly secured every time you adjust the shades. You can secure the cords with a cord cleat.
- Many window blind safety websites have detailed guidelines on how to retrofit existing window treatments to add a cord tensioner to looped pull cords—the cord tensioner attaches to the bottom of the window area and keeps the cord taut.
- When thinking about your child's sleep location, place the crib or bed away from a window. By doing so, you limit their ability to access the window during unsupervised times when they might become entangled or try to play with window locks.
- Children enjoy jumping on beds, so keep beds far away from windows to prevent them from reaching for any cords while jumping.
Prioritize Kid's Rooms First
Since children are often left unsupervised in bedrooms and play rooms (even for just a few minutes), these rooms should be addressed first. If you cannot replace all the blinds in your home, consider going cordless in your child's bedroom and play area where they are more likely to climb and access window covering cords. When choosing window treatments for your home, keep these safety precautions in mind and take the steps necessary to provide the safest environment possible.
