Child Window Safety
Too often, children are seriously injured or killed as a result of falling from a window. There are basic steps you can take to help make sure children are protected from window falls.
Parents and Residents
Take these steps to protect children in your home:
- Do install hardware to prevent kids from being able to open windows more than 4 inches.
- Do open windows from the top down, if possible.
- Do keep children away from open windows and doors when playing.
- Don’t open windows more than 4 inches.
- Don’t rely on window screens to prevent falls. Window screens are designed to keep bugs out. Window screens are not designed to protect kids from falls.
- Don’t place furniture near windows. This helps to prevent children from climbing onto window sills.
Building Owners (Landlords)
Take these steps to protect children in your buildings:
- Do install hardware to prevent kids from being able to open windows more than 4 inches.
- Do share the safety information on this page with your residents.
Report Unsafe Conditions
Residents are encouraged to contact 3‑1‑1 if they see windows that present a potential danger to children. A building inspector will be sent out.
For More Information
Use this brochure provided by Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago: