Window Blinds and Child Safety

The introduction of tighter safety standards for window blinds will make them safe for young children.

Internal window blind cords and chains pose a risk to babies, small children and vulnerable people who could injure or even strangle themselves on looped operating cords and chains. Your home should be a place where your children are safe and protected, but there is a hidden danger in many homes.

If you already have blinds fitted in your home there are some practical, simple precautions to help reduce the risk to babies and small children,

• make sure all cords and chains are always secured and out of reach
• do not place your child’s cot, bed, highchair or playpen near to a window blind
• do not put sofas, chairs, tables, shelves or bookcases near to a window blind as children love to climb
• Position furniture a safe distance away from windows to prevent children climbing too close to them
• Use the safety products to secure them out of reach.

Advice on buying new blinds

• Is the blind manufactured to the new standard?
• Is a warning notice attached?
• Is a safety solution provided and fitted in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions?
• Can the supplier demonstrate the product’s safe use?
• Is documentation relating to the blind’s safe installation, use and maintenance provided?

All blinds now comes with a child safety device (CSD), check that this is installed with the new blind, alternatively look for a blind that does not contain cords or chains or has concealed cords.

These tips should help to protect your child from possible serious harm. You should be aware that all risks cannot be eliminated. Parents and others should always keep window blind cords and chains out of the reach of children and follow the safety instructions.

For more information on child safety at home please see:

Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) website

Child Accident Prevention Trust (CAPT) website

British Blind and Shutter Association (BBSA) website