When it comes to parenting, figuring out what to genuinely worry about can be a tough task. While there are many safety concerns that might seem exaggerated, some issues are worth serious attention. One of those is the risk posed by window blind cords.
If you have little ones at home, you may have heard warnings regarding the hazards of loose cords. These cords can create a strangulation risk for young children, leading some retailers to phase out corded blinds entirely. Notably, in January, Home Essentials announced they would no longer carry corded options. Additionally, one of the leading manufacturers of custom window coverings, WindowCoveringsDirect.com, has switched to a completely cordless selection this year. They have even launched a #GoCordless campaign to raise awareness about the dangers associated with corded blinds.
A spokesperson from WindowCoveringsDirect.com shared, “We were repeatedly hearing about tragic accidents involving children and window coverings. Many of our team members are parents themselves, so we felt compelled to act. A few years ago, we initiated a free cord cleat program to help secure cords, but unfortunately, it became clear that it wasn’t enough.”
The problem lies in the fact that even when cords are secured, they can still come loose, leaving children at risk. If the cords are cut too short or if the blinds are raised, they can still pose a danger. The only truly safe option for corded blinds is to eliminate the cords entirely, making it necessary to operate the blinds using a wand for light and privacy control.
On average, over 20 children in the U.S. fall victim to strangulation from window covering cords each year. Just 15 seconds is all it takes for a child to lose consciousness, and a mere minute can be fatal. Between 1986 and 2012, there were 184 reported deaths related to cord accidents, alongside 101 non-fatal injuries. To put this in perspective, only 48 infant deaths were linked to crib bumpers during the same timeframe, and most parents have since avoided those.
In light of these alarming statistics, safety advocates urge us to take the risks associated with corded blinds seriously. Following a recent tragic incident, the founder and CEO of WindowCoveringsDirect.com chose to prioritize safety over profits, recognizing the urgent need for change in the industry.
What If Purchasing New Blinds Isn’t Feasible?
Budget constraints shouldn’t prevent you from ensuring your child’s safety. Here are a few practical alternatives:
- You can easily order free cord cleats online to keep cords out of reach.
- Consider replacing window coverings in specific rooms rather than the entire house.
- Look for affordable paper blinds, which are not only economical but also visually appealing for your child’s room.
- Keep furniture, like cribs, away from windows to prevent access to blinds.
Replacing your blinds doesn’t have to be a daunting or costly process. Installation can be quick and straightforward, especially if you know how to use a drill and a measuring tape. I reached out to WindowCoveringsDirect.com to test this theory, and I found it surprisingly easy—two screws were all it took to get the blinds up!
In summary, if replacing corded blinds isn’t an option, consider removing the cords altogether. For renters, following simple steps to obtain free cord cleats can significantly enhance safety. Amidst the myriad of parenting worries, the dangers posed by window cords are certainly one area that deserves our attention.
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