It takes only seconds for a toddler to lose their life on a blind cord – make your home safe!
27th September 2019
PLEASE NOTE: This article is over 1 year old and may not contain the most up-to-date information.
Children can become entangled on hanging cords when playing, climbing or exploring near window blinds. It can take less than a minute for a child to lose their life on one window cord. Children aged between 16 and 36 months are most at risk.
These simple steps can be taken by parents, relatives and carers, around the home:
- Examine every blind. If they have a looped control chain or cord and do not have a safety device fitted, then you can easily install one of the safety devices available
- Ensure that all operating blind cords and chains are kept out of children’s reach
- Ensure cots, beds and any furniture are kept away from windows and blinds – remember children love to climb
- When buying a new blind, always look for one that does not contain cords, has concealed cords or has an in-built safety device and that complies with the 2014 European Standards
For more information about making your home a safe environment, please visit www.nidirect.gov.uk.