The Shocking Truth About Corded Window Coverings
As a parent, you want to keep your little ones safe. But did you know that the window treatments in your home could be putting them at risk? It’s a chilling reality that corded window coverings are one of the leading causes of strangulation deaths in young children.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), children have strangled to death on the cords of window blinds, shades, draperies, and other window coverings, and this can happen in mere moments even with an adult nearby. The safest option when young children are present is to go cordless. CPSC encourages consumers to buy and install cordless window coverings, which are available at most retailers. When buying online, look for products described as “cordless.”
You might be thinking, “But my kids are so well-behaved, they’d never touch the cords.” I wish that were true, but window cord strangulation is often silent, so parents or caregivers nearby may not realize that a tragedy is happening. Cordless window coverings are the only option to eliminate this strangulation hazard.
The Grim Reality of Window Cord Strangulation
Let’s dive into the chilling facts. According to CPSC’s data, there have been 209 reported fatal and near-miss strangulation incidents involving window covering cords among children 8 years old and younger from January 2009 through December 2021. That’s an average of about 17 incidents per year! And the true number is likely even higher, as many incidents go unreported.
Window treatments with exposed or dangling cords are one of the leading home hazards for infants and young children. Strangulation can occur in just a few minutes, and the consequences are devastating – permanent brain damage, paralysis, or even death. These incidents often happen silently, with the child slipping away unnoticed, even when an adult is in the room.
Taking Action: Choosing Cordless for Safety
Clearly, corded window coverings pose an unacceptable risk that we cannot ignore. That’s why I’m urging all parents and caregivers to make the switch to cordless window treatments. Home Curtains Philadelphia offers a wide range of cordless options that eliminate the dangers of dangling cords.
Our cordless solutions, like LiteRise and UltraGlide, allow you to easily raise and lower your shades and blinds with a gentle push or pull. No cords to worry about – just smooth, effortless operation. And with PowerView Automation, you can even control your window coverings with the touch of a button or the sound of your voice.
But it’s not just about convenience – it’s about keeping your little ones safe. The CPSC has issued a mandatory safety standard for custom window coverings, requiring that operating cords be eliminated or made inaccessible. By choosing cordless options, you’re not only protecting your family, but also staying ahead of the curve.
Don’t Take Chances – Upgrade to Cordless Today
I know the thought of replacing all your window coverings might seem daunting, but trust me, it’s worth it. The peace of mind you’ll have, knowing your children are safe, is priceless. And the cost is more reasonable than you might think – our cordless options start at just a few dollars more per window.
So, what are you waiting for? Take a look at our selection of stylish, safe, and easy-to-use cordless window treatments, and make the switch today. Your family’s well-being is too important to risk. Together, let’s create a home that’s not just beautiful, but also a haven of safety for our little ones.
The Final Verdict: Cordless is the Way to Go
When it comes to window coverings, the choice is clear: cordless is the safest option for your family. Don’t let corded window treatments put your children at risk. Upgrade to the peace of mind and convenience of cordless window treatments from Home Curtains Philadelphia. Your little ones’ lives are too precious to gamble with. Make the switch today and enjoy the comfort of knowing your home is a haven of safety.
Table 1: Comparison of Window Covering Cord Requirements
| Standard | Stock Products | Custom Products |
|---|---|---|
| ANSI/WCMA A100-2018 | No operating cords, inaccessible cords, or cords ≤ 8 inches | Allows accessible cords > 8 inches |
| Canadian Regulation | Cords ≤ 8.66 inches or loops ≤ 17.32 inches | Same as stock products |
| Final CPSC Rule | Same as stock products in ANSI/WCMA A100-2018 | Same as stock products |
As you can see, the CPSC final rule brings the safety requirements for custom window coverings in line with the more stringent standards for stock products. By eliminating accessible, hazardous cords, we can put an end to the tragic and preventable deaths and injuries caused by window covering strangulation. Make the switch to cordless today – your family’s safety is worth it.
