Child Safety with Blinds and Shades

Posted February 14, 2018

Do Your Window Treatments Meet Child Safety Standards?

Child safety (and pets) should be the top concern when choosing blinds and shades.

Any window treatment with a loop cord poses a strangulation hazard for young children and pets.

According to research recently published in Pediatrics, a child dies nearly every month and two are injured every day in window blind related incidents. These are scary numbers for any parent, especially since all of those deaths and injuries are avoidable.

Child Safety Standards for Window Treatments

In 1996 the Window Covering Manufacturers Association (WCMA) created safety standards that are regularly revised and updated. In 2017 the WCMA proposed to revise the voluntary standard to require all “stock” products to be cordless or have inaccessible cords. This would apply to all pre-made blinds purchased in stores or online. These new standards are proposed to take effect later this year.

Look for the “Best For Kids” certification label

How do you know if your blinds or shades are safe for children and pets? Look for the “Best For Kids” certification label. This label indicated that the product has been tested by a third-party before it is given the seal of approval for safety criteria.

We can help you choose your blinds and shades wisely to avoid any possible risks. Hunter Douglas and Norman Window Fashions both have products that have the “Best For Kids” certification. Accent Custom Drapery is dealer for both of these companies.

Best For Kids, blinds, child safety, cords, custom window treatments near Detroit, loops, shades, window treaments

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