This summer BC Ambulance Service, BC Children’s Hospital and Fraser Health are joining forces to increase parental awareness of the risks to children from falls that happen from windows and balconies during the hot summer months. BC Ambulance Service attended more than 150 serious falls last year that resulted in serious injury or, in a few cases, death to toddlers. Screens across doors and windows will not contain a toddler/young child who runs toward the screen. This applies to high-rise buildings – as well as homes with two stories. To help build awareness, they’ve created a window decal lock-it-for-love– to remind parents/caregivers to lock balcony doors and secure windows when they are open.
Remember:
• Talk to children about window and balcony safety.
• Window screens are not strong enough to hold the weight of a child – they keep bugs out, not children in.
• Move furniture and planters away from windows and balcony edges to discourage children from climbing, especially cribs and beds.
• Install and maintain window safety devices – ensure there is a safe release option in case of a house fire.
• Keep windows open 10 centimetres or less – children can fit through a space as small as 12 centimetres.
• Don’t leave children unattended on balconies or in higher floor rooms with open windows.