When it comes to parenting, determining what to truly worry about can be overwhelming. While it seems like everything around children carries some risk, there are specific concerns that merit serious attention. One such concern is the danger posed by blind cords.
For those with young kids, the hazards associated with dangling cords are well-documented. These cords present a strangulation risk that has prompted some retailers to eliminate corded blinds entirely. In a significant move, IKEA ceased sales of corded blinds in January, and another major player in the custom window covering market, BlindsDirect.com, announced a complete transition to cordless options this year. They even launched a #GoCordless campaign to raise awareness about the risks associated with corded blinds.
A representative from BlindsDirect.com shared, “Safety has always been our priority. We’ve seen heartbreaking incidents where children have lost their lives in window covering accidents. As parents ourselves, we felt compelled to take action.” Despite their earlier efforts to provide cord cleats for securing blinds, they ultimately recognized that this was insufficient, as hazards persist even when cords are tied up.
The reality is that, even when secured, blind cords can still pose a risk, as they may loosen or remain long enough to endanger children. The safest solution involves eliminating the cords altogether, rendering them ineffective for raising the blinds, and instead using a wand to control the slats for light and privacy. This approach alleviates the anxiety associated with having cords in the household.
Statistics reveal that, on average, over 20 children in the U.S. succumb to strangulation from window covering cords each year, with just fifteen seconds being enough for a child to lose consciousness. Tragically, one minute can be fatal. From 1986 to 2012, there were 184 child fatalities linked to cord blind incidents, alongside 101 non-fatal injuries. To put this in perspective, during the same period, crib bumpers were linked to 48 infant deaths, leading to a widespread aversion among parents. Clearly, the risks of corded blinds are significant and warrant serious consideration.
In light of these dangers, the founders of BlindsDirect.com made a decisive choice to prioritize safety over profit, stating, “We can’t wait for industry standards to catch up when children’s lives are at stake.”
If replacing your blinds is financially challenging, there are still options available. You can request cord cleats online for free, allowing you to safely secure any cords. Instead of replacing all your window coverings at once, consider focusing on specific rooms, or even opt for affordable paper blinds that look appealing in your child’s space. Additionally, keeping cribs and furniture away from windows can significantly reduce risks.
Replacing blinds doesn’t have to be a daunting or costly task. Installation is straightforward, often requiring only a drill and a measuring tape. I personally tested this theory with BlindsDirect.com and found it exceedingly simple—two screws were all it took to have the new blinds up and functioning.
In conclusion, if purchasing new blinds is outside your budget, consider removing the cords for safety. If you’re a renter and can’t make modifications, utilize free cord cleats to ensure safety. Parenthood can feel overwhelming with the myriad of warnings out there, but it’s crucial to take certain dangers seriously.
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