Tips and Tricks to Successfully Childproofing Your Windows

If you have a child living in your home or you have children visiting often, like grandchildren it’s important to ensure your home’s windows are childproof and part of it is considering the layout of your home’s. Of course, it is absolutely imperative that your home windows are equipped with a functioning locking mechanism to keep your windows securely shut when toddlers and children are wandering about. However, another part of child safety around windows is by checking the following things:

• Check that there aren’t any nearby furniture that is can be easily climbed onto in order for the child to access the window and have enough leverage to actually open and access the window.
  On the same point, check that there aren’t any stackable items like books, blocks, or stools that your child could climb up onto and again access the window.
  Check that there aren’t any objects around that are strong enough to break or crack the window if thrown at the window.
• Here’s an important thing to note that most parents or guardians don’t realize: You can’t rely on the window screen, it is not secure and cannot hold the weight of a child if a child were to lean or fall into it. In fact, you can actually test it out for yourself by seeing how easily you can pop it out of the frame using your hands only. If you intend on having your windows open often to ventilate your home, consider installing a window guard which would be your best protection against falls from a window. Permanent locks are essential, but children are really clever and it would only be a matter of time before they learn how to unlock the window if they really wanted to. Having a secondary safety feature will provide much needed peace of mind for the entire household.

Now, when it comes to certain window types and which ones can offer more enhanced childproofing features, here are a few options that may help you decide which ones may be better suited for your family:

Casement windows

Casement windows are probably the most common type windows being installed in residential homes. One side of the window is hinged and it can be opened and closed similar to the function of a door. Casement windows are known to be the best in the industry for keeping out the breeze or unwanted hot and cold air into the home. This is because, when a casement window is closed, the sash presses against the frame and can be locked into place, like a seal. When open, casement windows also allow the ability to let fresh air in and primarily functions with the use of a crank.

With casement windows the crank handles can be removed so that your child, or anyone for the matter won’t be able to open the window. When you’re ready to operate the window again, simply pop the crank handle back on. The only thing to consider here is, don’t lose the handle or damage it while it’s removed!

Another safety feature you can use with casement windows is a window guard. They are essentially steel bars that are installed on the interior side of the window to prevent falling. Don’t worry, they are removable so you don’t have to look like you’re living in a jail cell for too long. They are easily installed, very durable, and can be purchased at most home hardware stores.

Slider Windows

Otherwise known as the “retro” window type. One window stays fixed and the other can move side to side. These types of windows were most commonly seen in the 50’s or 60’s however, nowadays, they are still seen as very modern with their minimalistic, clean look. These windows also allow the ability to let fresh air in.

Now that we remember how slider windows function, you can probably guess which safety feature would work best to secure this window type: The Charley Bar is easy to install, and does its job well. It is an adjustable bar that can retract to the size of a specific window and when it is wedged horizontally between the sliding window and the frame, the window is virtually impossible to open.

Awning window with crank

Awning windows open from the bottom, outwards with the hinges secured at the top of the frame, blocking any rain water from being able to flow inside the window opening. When closed, these windows have a compression seal that creates an airtight seal and minimal heat loss.

For awning windows, they would work best with a Restrictor cable lock for childproofing. It can be installed on all window types and materials. It is compact and won’t ruin the sleek appearance of your window. It provides added window safety and security by allowing the window to be opened and closed to the restricted distance without the use of a key each and every time. Just one thing to consider, don’t misplace the key or let your little one get a hold of it!

If your child is able to talk and communicate, always talk to them about window and door safety. Explain the danger of heights in two storey windows and dangers of leaving the home unattended through the windows and doors. Children should know and understand that the windows and doors of their home keeps them secure, that they should be locked when they are not in use in order to keep the family safe from outside danger and cold rainy weather!

If you are having issues with your windows, opening and closing them, the crank is broken, or the lock is not functioning, perhaps it’s time to consider replacement windows. Contact a window professional near you to get advice on whether or not your window can be repaired or to assess if it would be more worth it to have them replaced entirely. You can never underestimate your child’s safety in your home and it starts with having secure windows and doors.