Easy Steps to Prevent the Tragedy of Children Falling From Windows, King County recommendations

Internet

Warm weather is coming, and so is the potential for tragedy. It can happen quickly, even under parent supervision, an open window and a child leaning outside. 

Metropolitan King County Councilmember Kathy Lambert, a member of the King County Board of Health, was joined today by first responders and medical professionals to point out how easy steps can prevent a life-altering tragedy.  Kathy Lambert is our Redmond representative.

Harborview Medical Center has had to traditionally prepare to treat up to 50 children who fall out of open windows every spring and summer; we want to prevent these tragedies. Just this month, a child who fell six stories was being treated at Harborview after surviving the fall.

Lambert, joined by Dr. Brian Johnston, Chief of Pediatrics for Harborview Medical Center, King County Undersheriff Scott Somers, Eastside Fire & Rescue Chief Jeff Clark, and Snoqualmie Fire Department Chief Mark Correira, discussed the steps everyone can take to protect young children, especially during the months when windows are going to be open:

• Using a window stop, that when installed, prevents windows from opening more than four inches, thereby prohibiting a fall from occurring.
• Keeping furniture, including cribs and beds, away from windows.
• If you can open your window from the top, do it—and always be sure to lock your windows when not in use.
• Make sure that all adults are aware of window safety.

For more information on preventing window injuries, go to: www.safekids.org/fall-prevention

QUOTES:

“Each year, almost 5,000 children are seriously injured from falling through an open window across the country. Bringing together lawmakers, medical professionals, and first responders is crucial in order to tackle this issue head-on."

--Councilmember Kathy Lambert

“Open windows are a danger to young children. Parents and caregivers need to remember that screens keep bugs out but they will not keep children in. Everyone can take steps to make windows safer.”

--Dr. Brian Johnston, Chief of Pediatrics for Harborview Medical Center

“A call to 911 that a child has fallen from a window is among the most heartbreaking calls for our Deputies, especially since these accidents are preventable. As warm weather approaches, we want to encourage families to install this simple and inexpensive device to keep their children safe.”

--King County Undersheriff Scott Somers“There is no greater tragedy that our personnel respond to then a preventable child death, using a simple window stop will save the lives of children.  Don’t be complacent, this tragedy can happen to your family unless you take action now to prevent it!”

-- Jeff Clark, Chief Eastside Fire & Rescue

“Child window falls can cause devastating injuries to young children. Many of these events are preventable with some basic techniques. Installing window-locks on upper floors and keeping furniture away from windows is a very easy way to reduce these events.”

-- Mark Correira, Chief Snoqualmie Fire Department