Tips Safer Window Areas (NAPSA)—While nothing can replace the watchful eye of a par- ent or caregiver, there are a num- ber of things you can do to increase safety around window areas. Budget Blinds, the leading custom window coverings franchise, encourages new parents to replace window treatments featuring looped cords with cordless or motorized options to minimize strangulation hazards. The company offers this checklist: Replace all corded blinds, shades and draperies manufactured before 2001 with today’s safer products. * Movecribs, beds and furni- ture away from windows. * Install retractable cords that remain at a constant length when the shade is not being operated, making them less accessible to children and pets. Eliminate dangling cords altogether by installing cordless or motorized window coverings. “Cordless window coverings are now widely available and cost-efficient,” said Tracy Christman, director of Budget Blinds Vendor Alliance. Look for these features when shopping for window treatments: Cordless Window Treatments—This feature allows you to raise and lower window coverings easily with one hand. Eliminating cords provides added safety and an uncluttered view. Motorized Window Treatments—Using a battery-operated remote control, you can raise, lower, tilt or open and close your window coverings at the touch of a button. Wand—Some window treatments are available with a control wand as opposed to a pull cord. If your window treatments were purchased before 2001, consider replacing them with new window treatments that conform to today’s safety standards. Breakaway Tassels—If you must have control cords, make sure they have breakawaytassels. Inner Cord Stops—tThis fea- ture inhibits the inner cords from being pulled out where they could pose a strangulation hazard. Cord Cleats—Cord cleats keep cords secured against the wall and out of a curious child’s reach. When traveling with your kids, remember to do a safety check of your room and areas where you'll spend time to identify hazards whether you're staying at a hotel or a private residence. Be sure to inspect the windowareas for potential risks. If cords are present, don’t permit your youngster to sleep or play near the window. Ask to reposition furniture and secure the cords during yourstay. more safety tips, visit www.budgetblinds.com/safety.
