The US Consumer Product Safety Commission is reminding parents and caregivers to consider safe window coverings to prevent child strangulation.

According to the agency, nearly one child a month dies after becoming entangled in a window-covering cord.

Officials ask that parents and caregivers read about the hazard and CPSC’s recommended safety tips, then purchase and install cordless window coverings or window coverings with inaccessible cords in homes and buildings where children live or visit.

The then ask that the information be shared with others.

The Hazard Scenario

Strangulation deaths and life-altering injuries can occur wherever there is a window covering with an exposed cord. Children can wrap window covering operating cords around their necks or can become entangled in loops formed by cords, some of which are not clearly visible but are accessible.

• Incidents have involved children up to 9 years of age.
• Strangulation has occurred most often in children’s bedrooms and in living rooms, areas generally perceived by caregivers as safe.
• Strangulation happens quickly and silently.

 How to Stay Safe At Home

To prevent window covering cord strangulation:

• Use cordless or inaccessible cord window coverings in homes where young children live or visit. Child safe window blinds and shades are available for sale today.
• Examine all shades and blinds for accessible cords on the front, side, and back.
• Do not place cribs, beds, and furniture close to the windows.
• Check regularly that cords are out of reach of young children and cannot form dangerous loops.
  A young child is likely to die this month, strangled by a window covering cord. In recent years, CPSC has recalled millions of window coverings that have cords. Learn more about this hidden hazard and how to keep young children safe.

• View the Three Steps to Help Prevent Strangulations Poster
• On Safety Blog: Learn from These Tragic Stories

Michaela Madison Reporting

(Info/Photo-https://www.cpsc.gov/)