As weather warms, take steps to prevent window falls

With the return of spring, open windows become a common sight around Seattle. As of 2015, about 79 percent of the city's rental units had no primary air conditioning, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Open windows offer relief from warmer temperatures, but also also can create a fall risk. Dr. Brian Johnston, chief of pediatrics at Harborview Medical Center and professor of pediatrics at the UW School of Medicine, calls on parents to take steps to proactively reduce that risk.

Falls are the leading cause of nonfatal injuries for people 19 and younger . The led to 2.8 million emergency department visits in 2010, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  The most serious falls are typically from windows of multistory buildings. Harborview Medical Center in Seattle admits 40 to 50 young children each year for injuries sustained in falls from windows. Experts say these falls are largely preventable.

Most children fall through window screens, Johnston said. Screens are designed to keep insects out, and won't reliably bear the weight of a child.

Safe Kids Seattle and South King County, an injury-prevention coalition led by Harborview, lists several steps to help keep children safe around windows:

• Keep windows closed and locked when ventilation is not required.
• Install guards or stops to limit windows from opening more than 4 inches.
• Never expect window screens to keep children safe.
• Avoid placing furniture near windows to limit climbing access.
• Keep play areas away from open windows and doors.

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