Practice Window Safety

When a window is open, often the only thing between your child and the ground below is a thin screen. What is designed to prevent small bugs from entering the house certainly cannot prevent your child from falling. But don't feel like you have to put impenetrable grates around your windows. According to the National Safety Council, here are the tips you should follow for window safety:

• Make sure that your windows are not painted or nailed shut. You must be able to open them to escape in an emergency.

• Keep your windows closed and locked when children are around. When opening windows for ventilation, open ones that a child cannot reach.

• Set and enforce rules about keeping children's play away from windows or patio doors.

• Keep furniture -- or anything children can climb -- away from windows.

• If you have young children in your home and are considering installing window guards or window fall-prevention devices, be aware that the window guards you install must have a release mechanism so that they can be opened for escape in a fire emergency. Consult your local fire department or building code official to determine proper window guard placement.