Show Thanks This Thanksgiving and Keep Your Young Ones Safe

Check Your Home for Potential Window-Cord Hazards

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Nov 23, 2010, 11:26 ET

NEW YORK, Nov. 23, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Nothing brings family together quite like Thanksgiving, a holiday tradition built upon family reunions, laughter and cheer. We may capture such joyous moments through photo albums, but we always know and remember Thanksgiving for the more powerful feeling that it imparts—a strong appreciation for our own personal health and safety. This holiday season, the Window Covering Safety Council (WCSC) is reminding families to practice window cord safety in the home.

According to information provided by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, since 1991 more than 175 infants and young children have died from accidental window-cord strangulation. It is important to make sure to have only cordless window products in homes with young children.

The WCSC recommends that consumers follow a few simple steps to ensure that window coverings remain at the lowest risk for potential harm:

Install only cordless window coverings in homes with young children. Replace window blinds, corded shades and draperies manufactured before 2001 with today's safer products.
Move all cribs, beds, furniture and toys away from windows and window cords, preferably to another wall.
Keep all window pull cords and inner lift cords out of the reach of children. Make sure that tasseled pull cords are short and continuous-loop cords are permanently anchored to the floor or wall. Make sure cord stops are properly installed and adjusted to limit movement of inner lift cords.
Lock cords into position whenever horizontal blinds or shades are lowered, including when they come to rest on a windowsill.

By following these safety tips, parents can actively work to eliminate potential window cord hazards in their home and protect the safety of their families.

The Window Covering Safety Council is a coalition of major U.S. manufacturers, importers and retailers of window coverings. Consumers can receive additional information and free cord-repair kits through WCSC's website at www.windowcoverings.org or at its toll-free phone line at 1-800-506-4636.