How to Baby-Proof Windows
It is common to baby-proof outlets, stairs and doorknobs, but often parents forget one of the other hazards that can harm a baby, including windows, according to BabyCenter. Windows present a hazard to your child because he can fall out of a window that is open or easy to open. Additionally, glass shards from a broken window might also harm your child. A variety of baby-proofing solutions are available on the market for windows.
Things You'll Need
- Window stops
- Drill
- Window latches
- Window guards
- Shatterproof film
Instructions
Purchase window stops that prevent the window from sliding up and opening. The stops are installed with a drill on the window frame above the top or to the side of the window that slides up to open. These stops work on double-hung, single-hung and sliding windows. The window stop placement is up to you; place it just above the top of the window to prevent the window from opening at all when the stop is in the lock position, or a few inches above the window to allow the window to open slightly for fresh air. The stops have an unlock position that will allow the window to open fully in case of an emergency. Buy window latches, also called burglar bars, that work the same way as a window stop, but are installed on the actual glass of the window to prevent the window from opening. Window latches flip down to an open position to allow the window to open fully when needed or flip up to a closed position to prevent the window from opening. Latches work best on double-hung windows, but need at least 3/8 inch of clearance between the two window panels to allow the window to open when the latch is down. Install window guards on the windows. Guards consist of vertical or horizontal bars across the window that allow you to open your windows fully and still have protection from a baby falling through the opening. Guards install with screws into the window frame and many have quick release buttons if you need to get out of the window in an emergency. Window guards work on all types of windows, including crank windows. Use a shatterproof film over the window glass to prevent glass shards from cutting a child in the event that the glass breaks. The shatterproof film does not prevent a window from breaking; it keeps the shards from falling out of the window. Shatterproof film is available at many home improvement stores.
