Basic cord safety

Children and window cords don’t mix. When window cords are accessible to small children, these seemingly harmless products may become strangulation hazards.

This is especially important with older window coverings that may not meet the latest national standard for window cord safety.

The Window Covering Safety Council is urging parents and caregivers to make the right choice and only use cordless window products in young children’s bedrooms and sleeping areas. Owners and renters should replace all window coverings in the home made before 2001 with today’s safer products.

And remember to always follow these basic window-cord safety rules:

• Install only cordless window coverings in young children’s bedrooms and sleeping areas. Replace window blinds, corded shades and draperies manufactured before 2001 with today’s safer products.
• Move all cribs, beds, furniture and toys away from windows and window cords, preferably to another wall.
• Keep all window pull cords and inner lift cords out of the reach of children. Make sure that tasseled pull cords are short and continuous-loop cords are permanently anchored to the floor or wall. Make sure cord stops are properly installed and adjusted to limit movement of inner lift cords.
• Lock cords into position whenever horizontal blinds or shades are lowered, including when they come to rest on a windowsill.