Open Windows Can Cause Hazard to Kids
EVERETT, Wash. — With temperatures warming up, a lot of people will open up those windows to let in cool air. But with kids around, an open window can turn deadly.
Trauma workers in Snohomish County said kids falling out of windows is more common than you think. For example, in Snohomish County Providence Hospital’s emergency room sees an average of 10 cases a year. So far they’ve already had 15 cases of kids falling out of windows.
“You hear stories all the time, and you think that, oh that could never happen at our house. So you do have to think all of the things when you’re child-proofing the house windows, outlets, covered doors, chemicals all those things,” said Tammy S., a mother of two young children.
According to Safe Kids USA, window falls account for 12 childhood deaths and 4,000 injuries for kids under the age of 10 annually. Experts remind parents window screens can only hold up to 5 pounds and they are meant to keep bugs out, not kids inside.
“Move furniture away from windows so they can’t climb up on furniture which will give them more force on that window screen, supervision that’s key to all of it create supervision,” said Shawneri Guzman with Safe Kids Snohomish Co.
Parents can find them safety latches and window guards online or at a hardware stores.They’re quick and easy to install and cost as little as $5. These window guards are a bit more ranging from $50 – $200.
If you’ve come here in search of a personal injury lawyer, don’t go away. Contact our Everett personal injury lawyers today for a free legal consultation by calling 1-800-282-4878.
