With cold weather upon us, it’s a good time to think about the interior of your home. How safe is it? Do you have small children and pets–or, are there children who visit your home regularly? One safety issue that’s often overlooked–or not even considered–child safe window coverings. At Seeview Blinds and Shutters, we want to promote the safest environment for your family. Take a look at the regulations, what happens when cords are present, and discover which products will be ideal for your home.
Cord Regulations
Exposed cords present risk of injury–and even death–to small children. Standards have been put in place to uphold Corded Window Coverings Regulations as published by the Justice Laws Website. Those regulations state:
Unreachable Cords:
“A cord that is not reachable must remain so, whether the corded window covering is fully opened, fully closed or in any position in between, throughout the useful life of the corded window covering.”
Reachable Cords:
“A reachable cord with one free end must not exceed 22 cm in length when it is pulled in any direction.”
Do You Have Blind Cords?
Blind cords were used to adjust window coverings for decades. It’s no surprise that many homeowners still have them in their homes. How does this play out with children in the home?
- Long, tangled cords are often wound up, tied and thrown to the top of the window.
- Blinds no longer function beyond the position they were left in.
- If children eventually get access to those cords, the significant dangers still exist.
It’s Time to Go Cordless
When is it time for you to replace those old, dangerous blinds? Sooner than later. As you saw with the recommendations above, your safest option is to go cordless, or select child safe window coverings that feature a cord less than 22 cm. Let’s look at the possibilities…
LiteRise
The LiteRise operating system is cordless operation of both blinds and shades. A gentle push up or pull down on the bottom rail adjusts the window coverings right where you want them.
Automation
The latest innovations put control at your fingertips with motorized shades and blinds. You’re one tap away from instant adjustments. Lately, it’s even easier than that. Voice control makes Alexa do the work. Or, just set a schedule, and watch as your home transforms around the clock.
Soft Touch
A wand takes the place of dangling cords. This wand rests along the side of the window, using a gentle nudge up or a pull down on the wand to activate and stop the motorization of the window shade. Pull too hard on the wand, and it will disconnect from the magnet holding it in place.
Shutters
Of course, when you think of cordless window treatments, interior shutters have always been a great option. But, did you ever stop to think about the safety of shutters?
Do Safe Cords Exist?
Layout challenges and lifestyle usage can make having a cord on your window coverings an important asset–at times.
UltraGlide
A favorite operating system, UltraGlide comprises a short cord–less than 22cm–that retracts as it is used. You pull to operate, and as soon as you stop pulling, the cord returns to that original short position.
Need a Child Safety Expert?
If you’ve never thought about the safety of your window coverings, you’re not alone. Many people take for granted that it’ll never happen to them. But, why take the risk? Especially when we can come visit your home for free to help you understand your options for safety. Whether you need short cords, no cords or motorized convenience, we’ll help you understand what will work for you and your family.
Contact our team, at Seeview Blinds and Shutters, for a free, in-home consultation.
