Babyproofing Windows

Your baby is constantly learning during the first year of life, and that learning often takes place through exploring his environment. Unfortunately, there are many things in your own home that are harmless to you but could be dangerous for your baby, such as the corners of furniture, electrical outlets and toilets. Window pose a special danger, as your baby could climb onto them and fall or become tangled in drapes or blind cords.

  1. Move Furniture Away from Windows

    • Once your baby starts pulling up to stand, he may figure out how to climb onto a window sill and potentially fall outside. A fall from the ground floor could result in a broken limb. A fall from the second story or higher could be fatal. Any furniture placed near the window can make it easier for your baby to climb up onto the window sill. Move furniture such as tables, nightstands, stools and small chairs away from the windows.

    Block Access to the Windows

    • Limiting access to the windows is one of the easiest ways to babyproof them. You can do this by putting up a baby gate or a window guard. There are many advanced models of baby gates that can create a protective barrier around an area. You can place one of these in front of each window, creating a buffer zone that your baby cannot reach. Window guards are mesh coverings that go over the window to block the opening. A window guard even allows you to keep the window open without any risk to your baby.

    Install Window Locks

    • Window locks can prevent your older baby from pushing a window open and increasing the risk for a fall. However, if the sill (or window seat) is wide enough that your baby can stand on the edge even when the window is closed, a window latch isn't enough protection. Your baby could still fall through the glass from that position. Use window locks only when the sill does not provide enough space for your baby to climb.

    Remove Other Hazards

    • Falls are not the only concerns around windows. Hanging drapes, the cords from window blinds and curtain tie-backs can all present a strangling hazard for your baby. These items could become wrapped around your baby's neck, even from a low height. Pull these items up and out of your baby's grasp. Use a hook to hang up cords and tie back any long curtains.

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