Parents Reminded to Check Window Blinds

If your miniblinds or corded shades were purchased before 2001, you should consider replacing them. Safety experts say they may be a potential hazard to infants and toddlers who could accidentally strangle on the window cords.

Miniblinds and pleated shades made before 1995 often have a looped pull cord that can serve as an unintended noose when within reach of a child. In 2001, built-in cordstops were incorporated into the design of miniblinds and corded shades to help prevent small hands from pulling on inner cords.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 170 infants and young children have died from accidental window-cord strangulation since 1991.

If cribs are placed near windows, infants may get tangled in the looped cords while sleeping or playing. Curious toddlers are also at risk of becoming entangled in window cords while climbing furniture to peer out a window.

So how do you prevent this from happening in your home?

The CPSC urges parents to replace older window coverings with today's safer products. Members of the Window Covering Safety Council (WCSC) eliminated looped pull cords on horizontal blinds and shades in 1995, and in 1997, permanently attached tie-downs for vertical blinds and drapes became an industry standard.

"Because cord-safety features are now built into window coverings, we believe parents will feel more confident about their child's safety if they replace their older window coverings with the products now available," explained WCSC Executive Director Peter Rush.

For those who don't want to part with their window coverings, another alternative is to retrofit pre-2001 corded blinds and window coverings with retrofit devices. Consumers can order free retrofit kits from WCSC online or by calling 1-800-506-4636.

Safety experts recommend that parents install cordless window coverings in children's bedrooms and play areas. Most traditionally corded window fashions are now available in cordless styles through the use of spring-loaded mechanisms, battery- or motor-operated lift controls, or simple wand pulls, reports the WCSC. And innovative new designs come in fabrics, metals and wood.

Source: Window Covering Safety Council