While you might already have your home childproofed for your toddler, you may need to do it all over again if you decide to move. Depending on the new home and the existing discount window treatments, you might have to install a few safety measures to ensure your little one doesn't get in harm's way.
But how to do you begin this process? In the middle of moving and unpacking, your blinds and shades may be the least of your concerns. However, childproofing them sooner rather than later can give you peace of mind as your kids explore their new home. Here are some tips for taking care of any underlying issues in a fresh environment.
1. Start by examining the existing window treatments.
What type of window treatments did the previous owner leave in the house? Are they wood blinds with cords, or are there shades that can be easily lifted out of your child's reach? Depending on the case, you may want to install cordless shades that don't pose a choking threat to your little ones.
2. Place kids' furnishings away from windows.
It's in your best interests to keep your child's furniture away from windows where they may come into contact with window treatments. For example, beds and cribs should be placed up against walls where there are no windows or electrical cords. This can reduce the risk of your children confronting danger.
3. Invest in window guards.
If you're especially fearful of the windows in your home and the potential for a fall, you may want to think about installing window guards. As CBS affiliate KLAS-TV reports, window guards are highly affordable and can make it so they can't be opened more than a few inches to allow fresh air into the space.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission states that approximately 4,000 children are treated in emergency rooms annually for injuries as a result of falling from a window, according to Medicinenet.com. Window guards can provide parents with peace of mind, knowing their little ones aren't in danger.
Whether you're going to be moving next weekend or in the coming months, doing your homework ahead of time can pay off. Knowing which items in your new space pose a threat to your children can make you a more efficient, responsible parent.
