The Dangers of Blind Cord and How to Make it Safe for Children

The cords and chains of window blinds can pose a serious risk to babies, young children, particularly those under the age of three who could strangle in the loop of cords and chains from window blinds. It is important that you take steps to make sure your children are safe. 

What you can do if you already have blinds in your home

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:

• ensure all operating blind cords and chains cannot be reached by children.
• tie up the cords or use one of the many cleats, cord tidies, clips or ties that are available
• 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

What to do if purchasing a new blinds for your home

The majority of blinds now comes with a safety cord clip. If your home or place is where babies or small children live or visit, insist on having this installed with the new blind, alternatively look for a blind that does not contain cords or chains or has concealed cords. Some options include:

• wand operated vertical blinds
• spring operated roller blinds
• gear operated blinds
• automated system that allow you to operate your blind using a remote control
• concealed cord systems where the inner cords of the blinds are held under tension and there are no operating 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.

Using safety devices may reduce the risk of a child being strangled but nothing can be considered risk proof.

You can consult a member of the British Blind and Shutter Association (BSSA) for advice on the most appropriate blinds for your home. They can also give you further information on ways to make existing blinds safer, alternatively send me an email and I will be more than happy to help!

FOR PEACE OF MIND, KEEP SAFETY IN MIND
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