Prioritising Child Safety in Window Treatments for Family Homes
Child safety is paramount when creating a warm and secure home environment for your family. As responsible parents, we take numerous measures to ensure our children are protected, from installing safety gates to covering electrical outlets. An area often overlooked, however, is the potential hazards associated with window treatments. By being aware of the possible risks and selecting suitable blinds, curtains, or shutters, we can create a safer space for our children and provide peace of mind for ourselves.
Baileys Blinds is dedicated to offering made-to-measure blinds, shutters, and curtains across the North East, tailored to our clients' unique needs—including child safety features. With years of experience in providing bespoke window treatments, we understand the importance of combining functionality, style, and safety for family homes. We strive to educate our customers on the need for child-safe window coverings and offer various options that cater to each household's specific requirements.
Understanding the Risks - Window Treatment Hazards for Children
To make informed choices for our families, we must first understand the potential risks associated with window treatments. Here are some common hazards to be aware of:
1. Strangulation: Loose cords or chains from window blinds pose a strangulation risk. Young children may accidentally entangle themselves in these cords, leading to severe consequences.
2. Falling: Improperly installed or secured window coverings might fall on children, causing injuries.
3. Accessibility: Low-hanging or accessible cords may encourage children to climb up furniture or windowsills to reach them, which could result in accidents.
By identifying these hazards, we can take the necessary steps to create a safer environment for our children.
Regulations and Guidelines for Child-Safe Window Treatments
In response to the growing concerns surrounding window treatment safety, various regulations and guidelines have been enacted. These rules help prevent accidents and promote child-safe practices:
1. European regulation EN 13120: In effect since 2014, this regulation specifies safety requirements for internal blinds and aims to reduce child-related strangulation hazards.
2. Make it Safe campaign: Launched by the British Blind and Shutter Association (BBSA), the Make it Safe campaign raises awareness regarding window blind safety and educates consumers on child-safe products and installation practices.
As responsible parents, it is crucial to be aware of these regulations and guidelines and apply them when selecting window treatments for our homes
Child-Safe Options for Window Blinds
Numerous child-safe options exist for window blinds, ensuring both functionality and safety for your home. Here are some popular choices:
1. Cordless blinds: Removing the need for cords or chains, cordless blinds are considered one of the safest options for homes with young children. You can easily adjust these blinds by gently pulling or pushing the bottom rail.
2. Motorised blinds: Operated via remote control, motorised blinds eliminate cords and chains. This not only helps prevent accidents but also adds a modern touch to your home.
3. Retractable cord system: This system involves a short, retractable cord that is only accessible when adjusting the blinds. Once released, the cord retracts and remains out of a child's reach.
4. Cord cleats and tension devices: If your existing blinds have cords, installing cord cleats or tension devices can help secure them and reduce risks. These can be fitted to the wall, ensuring cords are kept taut and out of children's reach.
Child-Safe Curtain and Shutter Options
Blinds aren't the only window treatments to consider when creating a child-safe environment; curtains and shutters can also be modified or chosen accordingly:
1. Cordless curtains: Opting for curtains without cords or drawstrings eliminates potential risks associated with cords. Both hand-drawn and motorised curtains are child-safe options.
2. Shutters: Plantation shutters or other shutter styles without cords present a safe and elegant option as well. As they rely on solid panels, rather than cords or chains, they pose no risk to children.
By selecting and installing child-safe curtains and shutters, you can create a secure and stylish living space for your family.
Creating a Secure Environment with Child-Safe Window Treatments
At the heart of every family is the desire to create a secure, comfortable, and stylish home for our loved ones. By understanding the importance of child safety in window treatments, we can make informed decisions that contribute to a safer environment.
Allow us to guide you through the process of selecting and installing the ideal child-safe window treatments, granting you the priceless reassurance that your family's safety and well-being is a priority in every aspect of your living environment.
Discover top-quality made-to-measure blinds, shutters, and curtains with child safety features at Baileys Blinds, one of the premier window blinds stores in the North East. Our dedicated team of experts is here to offer personalised solutions and expert advice, ensuring your family's safety and satisfaction.