The Dangers of Blind & Curtain Cords for Young Children
Are you aware of the new legislation and standards to help make your home safer for children?
The Risk & New Legislation
We know that you would do anything within your means to protect your children and grandchildren, but did you now, you may have this risk in your home.
In order to prioritise the well-being of young children, it is essential to acknowledge the potential hazards that low hanging blind and curtain cords can pose.
As of January 2015, a mandatory installation standard of window coverings was introduced to help with children’s safety within homes.
To make sure your home is safe and compliant, follow these 6 tips.
Our Top 6 Tips for a Safe and Compliant Home
To ensure your home meets the safety standards and is compliant, follow the tips below:
Tip 1 - Remove From Reach: Restrict access to blind or curtain cords and ensure that cords are not within close proximity of any children’s equipment, such as cots, high chairs, etc or any items on which they an sit, lie or climb on.
Tip 2 - Eliminate Low-Hanging Cords: Guarantee tat the bottom of any blind or curtain cord is positioned no less than 160cm from the floor and secure cords by wrapping them around a wall mounted hook located at a higher position.
Tip 3 - Safety Devices: For older blinds install safety devices, such as cord holders and wind-ups to create tension and firmly attach the cord to a wall. Alternatively, consider retro-fitting the blind or curtain cord with breakaway tassels.
Tip 4 - Expert Advice: When purchasing new blinds or curtains, seek expert guidance to ensure they meet safety standards and carefully follow the installation instructions provided with the product.
Tip 5 - Professional Installation & Standards: If your blind or window coverings are professionally installed, verify that the installation aligns with safety standards. Correct installation will ensure a loose cord cannot form a loop measuring 22cm or longer, at a height of 160cm or less from the floor.
Tip 6 - Labelling: Those responsible for installing corded internal window coverings must attach a label containing their name and contact details to the product. It is crucial not to remove any warning labels or swing tags that accompany the window covering.
Action & Next Steps
Actioning the mandatory standards to comply with blind and curtain cord regulations will greatly improve the safety within your home.