The NSC Window Safety Task Force supports new findings released on the dangers of children falling from windows - 5,100 children injured each year. Read more

Facts about the National Safety Council Window Safety Task Force

The Window Safety Task Force, under the NSC Community Safety Division, is comprised of members representing the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA), the Window and Door Manufacturers Association (WDMA) , and the Screen Manufacturers Association (SMA) in cooperation with the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and other organizations, was formed in 1997 to promote greater awareness of window safety.

About National Window Safety Week

Observed annually during the first full week in April, National Window Safety Week is designed to heighten the awareness of what North Americans can do to help keep their home and family safer from the risk of accidental falls or injuries in the home, especially as windows are open to provide ventilation. While National Window Safety Week is observed annually, safety education occurs throughout the year.

• National Window Safety Week safety observations, resources and downloadable pdfs, and tips for enhancing safety around windows, doors and screens are found here.

Purpose

The Window Safety Task Force of the National Safety Council strives to provide educational information and heighten safety awareness to help consumers take the necessary action to prevent the risk of window falls and to understand the vital role windows and doors play in fire safety.

Key elements

The task force emphasizes the life-saving role doors and windows play as the primary exits and secondary means of escape in the event of a fire. Doors serve as exits, while windows provide an alternate means of escape. The group also reminds North Americans that screens are designed to keep insect pests out, rather than holding a child's weight; therefore, children should not be left unattended around open windows. In homes with young children, for greater safety, windows within reach of children should remain closed and locked, or when double-hung windows are available, the bottom sash should remain closed, while the top sash is opened to provide ventilation. In addition, the coalition reminds consumers to avoid placing furniture under windows, to prevent potential climbing and falling hazards for young children, or hinder a quick escape in the event of a fire. Responsible adult supervision at all times is an essential element in helping keep children safe around open windows and doors.

Participants

Working in conjunction with the National Safety Council, trade associations and their representatives from the window, door and screen manufacturing industries are voluntarily teaming up to help educate and inform the public of the importance of taking proactive measures to enhance safety in the home. The team focused on safety issues is a joint effort of the membership of the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA), the Window and Door Manufacturers Association (WDMA),  and the Screen Manufacturers Association (SMA) in cooperation with the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) to promote safety awareness.  

Thank you for visiting our Website and for educating yourself on this important issue. This information is supplied by the National Safety Council's Community Safety Division. For more information about Window Safety Week and the Window Safety Task Force, please click on www.nsc.org\windowsafetytaskforce.

For further information, please contact Sloane Grubb at sloane.grubb@nsc.org