Key takeaways: Window falls can cause serious injuries in young children. Screens aren’t strong enough to stop a fall. Install window stops that limit openings to 4 inches or less, or window guards with a quick-release for fire escape. Keep cribs and furniture away from windows, and choose cordless window coverings.
As babies become mobile, windows become a safety concern.
The Risk
A 2011 study in Pediatrics by Harris and colleagues found that thousands of children are treated in U.S. emergency departments for window falls each year, with young children more likely to have head injuries.
Window Screens Don’t Prevent Falls
Screens are designed to keep insects out, not to hold a child’s weight.
How to Prevent Falls
- Install window stops that limit how far a window opens (4 inches or less).
- Install window guards on windows above the first floor, with an emergency release for fire escape.
- Open windows from the top if possible.
- Move cribs, beds, and furniture away from windows so children can’t climb up.
- Supervise children near open windows and balconies.
- Check local fire codes for window guard requirements.
Window Cord Safety
Cords on blinds and shades can strangle children.
- Use cordless window coverings whenever possible. Industry safety standards now require most stock window coverings sold in the U.S. to be cordless or have inaccessible cords.
- Keep cribs and furniture away from cords.
- Tie up or cut loops on older blinds and use cord cleats.
Balconies and Decks
- Check railings for gaps (no more than 4 inches).
- Keep furniture away from railings.
The Bottom Line
Use window stops or guards, keep furniture away from windows, and choose cordless window coverings.
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Sources
- Harris VA, Rochette LM, Smith GA. Pediatric injuries attributable to falls from windows in the United States in 1990-2008. Pediatrics. 2011;128(3):455-462.
- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Window covering cords; window falls. https://www.cpsc.gov
- American Academy of Pediatrics. Window safety. HealthyChildren.org. https://www.healthychildren.org
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Always talk with your baby’s health care provider or your own provider about your specific situation. If you think your baby or you may have a medical emergency, call 911.
