Preventing Window Falls

Consumer Product Safety Commission

Preventing Window Falls

Document #5124

Every year, thousands of young children are killed or injured in falls from windows. To help prevent these tragedies, take the following actions -- especially for windows in bedrooms.


Window with Guard
BulletSafeguard your windows with window guards or window stops.


  • Install window guards to prevent children from falling out of windows. (For windows on the 6th floor and below, install window guards that adults and older children can open easily in case of fire.)

  • Install window stops so that windows open no more than 4 inches.


BulletNever depend on screens to keep children from falling out of windows.

BulletWhenever possible, open windows from the top -- not the bottom.

BulletKeep furniture away from windows, to discourage children from climbing near windows.


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