Injuries and death from window blind cords send two kids to the ER each day.*
That’s why, in January of this year, the Window Covering Manufacturers Association announced the approval of a new industry standard to require all “stock” window blinds and shades be cordless or have inaccessible cords. The new mandate, which goes into effect in the U.S. and Canada on December 15, applies to pre-made blinds purchased in stores or online. (Corded blinds will still be available in custom products.)
Select Blinds has been ahead of the cordless curve since 2014 when it became the first retailer to offer a cordless version of every product it sold. Today, over half of all window treatments purchased by our customers are cordless. As a major proponent and supporter of the #gocordless movement, child safety is at the forefront of everything we do. As you shop on Selectblinds.com, if you select a corded or non-compliant product, you’ll be prompted with the following message:
Warning! Corded lift features are not covered under or deemed Best For Kids. Any accessible cords pose strangulation hazards to children and pets. Please choose cordless lift systems in homes where children and pets will be present.
Are you doing everything you can to protect them from the danger of strangulation and other injuries inherent in loose and exposed cords? October is National Window Covering Safety month, and we’re encouraging anyone with young children (2- to 4-year olds are most at risk) and pets in the home to take our Cordless Challenge. Here’s how:
- Replace all corded products with cordless coverings as your budget allows. Start with rooms where your children spend most of their time.
- Move cribs and other furniture children can climb up on away from windows, window coverings, etc.
- Keep all cords out of reach of children. Cut cords short or wrap them around a cord cleat.
- Do not tie cords together! This creates a new loop in which a child could become entangled.
- Anchor cords for continuous cord loop options.
- Make sure you lock cords on window treatments to prevent them from falling.
- Corded window treatments purchased before 2001 should be replaced or equipped with a retrofit kit to reduce potential strangulation risks.
Check out our free Buyer Guide for kid-friendly coverings for more information on cordless safety, and remember: cords and kids don’t mix!
*USA TODAY NETWORK Mary Bowerman, USA TODAY Network Published 12:13 p.m. ET Dec. 11, 2017
