HealthDay operates under the strictest editorial standards. Our syndicated news content is completely independent of any financial interests, is based solely on industry-respected sources and the latest scientific research, and is carefully fact-checked by a team of industry experts to ensure accuracy.

Please see our Editorial and Fact-Checking Policy for more detail.

HeathDay is committed to maintaining the highest possible levels of impartial editorial standards in the content that we present on our website. All of our articles are chosen independent of any financial interests. Editors and writers make all efforts to clarify any financial ties behind the studies on which we report.

TUESDAY, Oct. 4, 2022 (HealthDay News) -- How can you make your home safer for your young children? You might want to start by removing window coverings with cords that could strangle a toddler.

"Young children can quickly and silently become strangled on pull cords, continuous loop cords, inner cords or any other accessible cords on window coverings," said Alex Hoehn-Saric, chairman of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

"Cordless window blinds, shades, draperies, and other window coverings are the safest option," he said in a commission news release.

The hidden danger of corded window coverings can lead to tragedies, even when an adult is nearby, the CPSC warned.

According to CPSC data, about nine children under the age of 5 die every year, on average, from strangling on window blinds and coverings with cords. Furthermore, there were more than 200 window covering cord incidents involving children 8 and younger between January 2009 and December 2021. Of these incidents, nearly half (48%) of the children died.

Even if they don't die, children can be left with serious injuries such as permanent brain damage or even quadriplegia.

Blinds, shades, drapes and other types of window coverings that don't have cords can be found at most home decor stores and online marketplaces. Installing cordless window coverings in any room where a child might be could save their life.

If you can't replace your corded window coverings with cordless ones, the CPSC suggests that you take the following safety steps:

CPSC staff released drafts of two safety rules for corded window coverings on Sept. 28, 2022. If finalized, the rules would address the risk of strangulation deaths and injuries to children.

The CPSC offers more tips on how to prevent your child from getting hurt by window coverings.

SOURCE: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, news release, Oct. 3, 2022

This story may be outdated. We suggest some alternatives.

The content contained in this article is over two years old. As such our recommendation is that you reference the articles below for the latest updates on this topic. This article has been left on our site as a matter of historic record. Please contact us at solutions@healthday.com with any questions.

By Sydney Murphy HealthDay Reporter

This website is certified by Health On the Net Foundation. Click to verify.