Itasca, IL – The National Safety Council, American Architectural Manufacturers Association, Window & Door Manufacturers Association and Screen Manufacturers Association have designated April 24-30 National Window Safety Week.
"We schedule the timing of National Window Safety Week to coincide with spring -- the time of year when we begin to open our windows,” says Alan C. McMillan, president and CEO of NSC. “This week we remind everyone of the risks open windows pose to young, unsupervised children.
From now until late fall it is important to remember:
- To keep windows closed and locked when young children are present.
- To never place furniture such as chairs, beds and sofas below windows. Unattended children can use pieces of furniture like these to quickly climb to an open window and potentially fall.
- That insect screens are not designed nor intended to prevent children from falling out of windows.
Also remember that windows can provide a life saving avenue of escape from a fire. Windows should be included in your home emergency escape plan, and children should be taught how to properly use a window for escape and rescue purposes.
The National Safety Council (www.nsc.org) saves lives by preventing injuries and deaths at work, in homes and communities, and on the roads, through leadership, research, education and advocacy.