In 2013, Victoria lost a two-year-old toddler after she became entangled in a window blind cord. This tragic incident highlights a preventable danger that can be mitigated with awareness and proactive measures. Brett Thomas from The Blind Factory emphasises that awareness is the key to saving young lives.
The Importance of Blind Cord Safety
“When families renovate or move home, blind cord safety can be easily forgotten in the chaos of packing and unpacking, but a tragic scenario with a child’s life is 100 percent avoidable,”
Although legislation has been enacted to address this issue, the responsibility lies with both blind providers and parents.
Legislation and Safety Measures
The Blind Factory ensures that all blind and curtain cords are fitted with a safety device that removes any slack from the cord. Additionally, these devices are installed at a height unreachable by small children. This practice is in line with the Australian Government's recommendation that the bottom of any cord should be over 1600mm from the ground.
Practical Tips for Parents
Furniture Placement:
Ensure that cots, beds, change tables, desks, and chairs are not placed near window cords or curtains. This prevents children from reaching and potentially getting entangled in the cords.
Cord Management:
Bundle any excess cord length into an appropriate device and fix it to the wall where it is only reachable by adults. This eliminates loose cords that can pose a risk to small children.
Regular Safety Checks:
For families with existing blinds or curtains, conduct regular safety checks. Visit your local hardware or curtain store to install the correct safety device if needed.
Supplier Assurance:
When purchasing new blinds, ensure that your supplier uses safety devices to bundle the cords. Inform them about the presence of small children in the house and insist on no additional cord length.
Child Education:
Teach children old enough to understand that only parents or older siblings are allowed to operate the blind cords or curtains. This helps in instilling safe practices from an early age.
The Blind Factory's Commitment
The Blind Factory is a leading Victorian supplier of made-to-measure and made-to-last quality roller, venetian, and roman blinds, shutters, and awnings. With over 40 years in the market, The Blind Factory has the experience and products to suit every home, offering an industry-leading five-year warranty and free consultation.
“We have legislation now that helps, with hefty fines and court action for failure to comply but blind providers need to install the right equipment and parents must ensure the cords are always safely stored,”
Taking Action
For families looking to install blinds, it is crucial to ask your supplier if they use safety devices to bundle the cords. Double-check the safety features once the blinds are fitted to ensure your child will be safe. Regularly inspect existing blinds and install safety devices as necessary to maintain a safe environment for your children.
Conclusion
No child's life should be compromised due to preventable hazards. By following these guidelines and ensuring proper safety measures are in place, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents related to blind and curtain cords. The Blind Factory is dedicated to providing safe, high-quality window coverings and expert advice to help protect your family.
Contact Us
For more information or to schedule a free consultation, contact The Blind Factory on 13 BLINDS (13 25 46) or request online here. Together, we can make your home safer and more comfortable for your loved ones.
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