Did you know that windows are considered to be among the top 5 hidden hazards within a home? While it is true that these components of the home offer many advantages – such as allowing the ventilation of the structure, opening up the interior of the home to higher levels of natural light, and allowing us to enjoy a view of the great outdoors – it is also true that these products result in safety risks.

In this guide, you will be introduced to the 3 most common within the United States. 

Safety Risk #1: Fall Risk

Each year, an average of 3,300 kids that are 5 years old or younger sustain highly significant injuries from windows. Additionally, at least 8 kids a year die as a result of a fall from a window.

The risk for injury and death increases with windows that are installed on the upper level of a residence. Strangulation may also occur with corded window treatments. To avoid these issues, take the following steps:

1. Remember that a screen placed on a window is only designed to keep outdoor pests on the exterior of the home. They will not protect in the event of a fall. 
2. If you have small children in your home, keep all furnishings and other items that may be climbed up on away from all windows. 
3. To properly protect children, you should have window guards placed on the windows throughout your home. Most recommend these for upper levels, but it is best to have them on ground levels, too. Even a small 2–3-foot drop from a window could result in an injury to a small child. 
4. For optimal protection, you may have double-hung replacement windows installed in the home. These allow ventilation from a top-opening window and the bottom window stays completely shut. 

Safety Risk #2: Home Burglary 

According to crime statistics, approximately 30% of all burglars will enter into a door or a window that is unlocked.

Additionally, many gain unlawful entry through windows of the ground floor in the home. To prevent this issue from occurring, do the following:

• Make sure all of your windows and doors remain locked at all times. 
• Security devices with motion-sensing technology should be installed on all windows. 
• Keep the entire perimeter of the structure lit up to prevent intrusions. 
• Trim bushes and shrubbery near windows. If you like, you may plant thorny bushes around windows and/or a gravel border so that noise is made. 
• Replace all windows in the home with those that have the highest level of security and are most resistant to breakage. 

Safety Risk #3: Emergencies 

There are many issues that may result in windows being the only accessible point of exit from the home during an emergency. Examples include fire, flooding, and doors becoming blocked.

The ability to exit through windows could mean the difference between life and death. To ensure safe exiting, consider the following: 

1. Ensure that all windows are completely accessible. In other words, do not nail them or secure them shut from the interior of the home. 
2. When installing window guards on the windows, ensure that the emergency release is easy to operate. 
3. For second-story windows, install a safety-approved ladder. Teach all members of your family how to use the product. 
4. Have at least 2 fire escape windows installed on the front and back of the house on each level. 
5. Have replacement windows installed that are easy to operate and are large enough to use as an exit on the home. 

Contact Us for Assistance 

If you are in need of replacement windows that are safer for your home – such as double-hung or performance windows – contact us today at Southern Industries Home Improvements for assistance.

We will work closely with you to select the safest models for your home. When you call us, be sure to ask about our install special that we are currently offering. For more information, contact us now at: (833) 240-4900