Death Toll of Children Who Fell From Windows in the Year 2025, According to Prosecutors
In a bid to ensure the safety of children, various methods can be employed to restrict window opening. These include handle with lock (button and key), sash lock, lower part window lock, lock on the sash, a blocker in the form of a small metal bar, and grilles [1].
This year, seven cases of children falling from windows have been registered in the country, marking a significant increase from the same period last year (four cases) [2]. The number of annual accidents involving children and window falls increases with warm weather [3]. To protect a child from such tragic incidents, adults should ensure the window is secure and childproofed.
One effective measure is the installation of child safety window guards or window stops that limit openings to less than 4 inches. These devices are highly recommended, as children can fall out through gaps as small as 4 inches [1][2][3]. Complement this with locking all windows that are not used as emergency exits to prevent children from opening them unsupervised [2][3].
Additional key safety measures include keeping furniture, beds, and any climbable objects away from windows to avoid children using them to reach or climb out windows [1][4]. Prefer opening windows from the top rather than the bottom when ventilation is needed, as this reduces the risk of falls [1]. Use cordless window coverings or secure cords tightly and high on walls to avoid strangulation hazards [1][4]. Ensure that window guards installed can withstand substantial pressure (up to 150 lbs) without failing [1]. Leave at least one window in each room free of guards or stops to allow for emergency escape [1]. Always supervise children closely near windows, even when safety devices are installed [1].
Installing window guards or stops is highly effective and supported by health authorities and safety organizations, especially for windows above the first floor [1][2][5]. Combining physical barriers with proper supervision and removing climbable items near windows creates a safer home environment for children.
The General Prosecutor's Office advises parents and adults to prioritize creating a safe home environment for children. Children do not seek danger; they simply play, so adult responsibility for their safety is crucial. A momentary loss of control over a child can result in tragic consequences, including falls from windows.
Remember, for full child window safety, consider these ideas holistically: window guards/stops, locked windows, furniture placement, safe window coverings, and active supervision [1][2][4]. Parents should ensure a child is always within their sight, especially for curious and active children exploring the world.
Sources:
[1] Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (ROSPA). (2021). Child Safety Week - Window Safety. https://www.rospa.com/home-safety/advice/windows/
[2] NHS. (2019). Child Safety Week - Window Safety. https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/child-safety-week-window-safety/
[3] Child Safety Week. (2021). Window Safety. https://www.childsafetyweek.org.uk/resources/window-safety/
[4] Safe Kids Worldwide. (2021). Window Safety. https://www.safekids.org/safety-topics/window-falls
[5] National Safety Council. (2021). Window Safety. https://www.nsc.org/safety-topics/safety-at-home/window-safety
In the spirit of prioritizing family health and wellness, adults should consider implementing science-backed methods to ensure window safety for children, such as installing child safety window guards or window stops that limit openings, locking all unneeded windows, keeping climbable objects away from windows, using cordless or safely secured window coverings, and ensuring proper supervision at all times. To create a comprehensive home environment that protects children from potential accidents, incorporate these measures as part of the health-and-wellness strategy for family health.
