Six Simple Steps To Window Blind Safety
Not so long ago I took part in a survey which centered around child safety and window blinds with emphasis on the strangulation risks from the cords. I offered my thoughts and then put it to the back of my mind because we have frosted windows and net curtains here (it's a Northern thing...). And then I saw this article about the death of a 17-month old child who was hanged by a window blind cord.
I remembered about some safety information supplied by the people who ran the survey - Apollo Blinds - and think that it's appropriate to raise awareness here (especially with more and more parents fitting blackout blinds in children's bedrooms).
Six Simple Steps To Safety
- Do a quick check in your home. Are any looped window blind cords dangling untethered? Even if they are high up they need to be tied back. Children can and will climb up!
- Select the best type of safety device for your blinds. Cord cleats can be used for roman and venetian cords whilst P-clips are great for vertical chains.
- If you are unsure, ask! Maybe go back to the company that fitted the blinds or ask at your local DIY store.
- Fit the cleat or clip in the best place to secure the cord.
- Wrap the excess cord around the cleat hook or secure the chain/cord into the clip.
- Make sure everyone who uses the blinds secures the cord.
The two clips featured are the cheapest way to make blinds safe but there are other products available, including operating wands and cordless blinds. There are also some that are operated with a remote control and don't need cords at all!
If you have window blinds, make sure they are safe as well as pretty and practical
This is not a commercial post. I have shared the information because I think it's important and relevant.