Frequently Asked Questions
How can I protect my toddler / child from falling out of a window in Massachusetts?
A:
The best way to prevent your child from falling from a window is to supervise him or her closely while near windows. However, it only takes seconds for even a supervised child to suffer a fall. Windows and doors should remain locked when not in use and objects that can be used to climb up and access higher windows should be moved away from walls.
Child safety window guards are the suggested method of extra protection to prevent child window falls. These guards are usually aluminum or steel bars with a maximum of 4″ spacing designed to withstand 150 pounds of pressure. Window screens are NOT a substitute for child safety as they are designed to keep out insects and not strong enough to prevent child window falls.
There are also operable window guards which are releasable or removable from the inside without the use of extra equipment. They are able to be installed on all windows and are approved by the Boston Fire Department due to their release feature which allows escape in case of emergency. Fixed guards or locks can also be used to restrict the window opening to less then 4″ but one window in the room must be free of these devices to allow emergency escape.
The Boston Public Health Commission has developed the “Kids Can’t Fly” campaign to help educate communities about the danger of unsecured windows and child window falls. Child window falls are the leading cause of injury to children 5 years and younger. Even a fall from a single-story window can cause a serious head injury and/or a spinal cord injury.
For more information on child safety window guards you can visit Windowguard.org to learn more about safety devices and locate a distributor near you. Also, low-cost window guards are available for Boston residents from the Boston Building Materials Co-op, 617-442-2262 or www.bbmc.com.
Even with safety measures and proper supervision, no child is completely safe from the dangers of an unsecured window. Faulty child safety window equipment, a negligent caretaker, and the neglect of proper window maintenance by building management can all lead to potential child window fall risks. If your child has suffered a serious injury or death as a result of the negligence of a third party responsible for the safety of your windows the attorneys at the Kiley Law Group can help you with your claim. For more information, contact us today – 1-888-208-1695.
