The Nation’s Largest Blind Recall Gives Parents Hope to End Toddler Tragedies
By Home Security Source Jan 5, 2010 | 10:15:00 amPosted in: Child Safety, DIY Safety, Family, Home Early last month, one of the nation’s largest recalls of Roman blinds and roll-up shades shocked many parents into taking a closer look at the safety of their children and their homes.
About 50 million Roman blinds and roll-up shades were recalled by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in December – that’s virtually every set of these types of blinds on the market. The CPSC reports at least eight deaths and 16 near-strangulations associated with roll-up shades since 2001; parents and consumer activists hope the recent recall will save lives.
Making home safe for infants and young children should be a top priority for parents. To help keep your kids safe from the dangers posed by certain types of window coverings at home, make sure to:
- Carefully examine all shades and blinds in your home. Window cords should never be accessible on the front, sides or back of blinds. If you have small children, the CPSC recommends using ONLY cordless window coverings.
- Never place cribs, kid’s beds or furniture near windows. Keeping children’s furniture away from windows all together will help discourage them from climbing to gain access to windows.
- Replace or repair potentially dangerous blinds. If you already have window coverings with looped bead chains or nylon cords in your home, consider getting rid of them and opting for a cordless shade. If you cannot purchase new window coverings, many retailers such as The Pottery Barn offer a free repair kit.
It’s important that all parents take a second look at home safety, stay updated on product recalls and take the time to make adjustments to home safety plans as children grow and family safety needs change.
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