Enjoy fresh, springtime air while staying safe and secure with these few tips from JELD-WEN.
04/02/2024
Safety tips as you open up your windows this spring
Warmer weather means opening windows to enjoy balmy breezes. Delightful as they are, however, open or unlocked windows can also pose a safety hazard.
In 1997, the U.S. National Safety Council (NSC), along with window industry leaders, including JELD-WEN, established Window Safety Week, which is observed during the first week in April each year. According to the NSC, falls from windows injure more than 3,300 children in the U.S. each year.
“As much as we love to enjoy fresh air, open or unlocked windows can put you and your family at risk of safety and security issues,” says Holland McGraw, product marketing manager at JELD-WEN. “While our windows are intentionally designed to be as safe as possible, Window Safety Week serves as a valuable reminder of the steps we can take to ensure our families’ well-being."
At JELD-WEN, we believe safety is imperative, so here are some solutions that can help protect your family and prevent accidents.
In 1997, the U.S. National Safety Council (NSC), along with window industry leaders, including JELD-WEN, established Window Safety Week, which is observed during the first week in April each year. According to the NSC, falls from windows injure more than 3,300 children in the U.S. each year.
“As much as we love to enjoy fresh air, open or unlocked windows can put you and your family at risk of safety and security issues,” says Holland McGraw, product marketing manager at JELD-WEN. “While our windows are intentionally designed to be as safe as possible, Window Safety Week serves as a valuable reminder of the steps we can take to ensure our families’ well-being."
At JELD-WEN, we believe safety is imperative, so here are some solutions that can help protect your family and prevent accidents.
Window opening control devices
JELD-WEN’s windows can be ordered with optional window opening control devices (WOCDs) which automatically limit window sash openings to less than four inches, reducing the risk of accidental window falls.
Because windows are critical escape and rescue routes in emergency situations, WOCDs also help homeowners meet egress codes. Equipped with a manual override mechanism for emergency escape and rescue, JELD-WEN WOCDs automatically reset after the sash has been fully closed.
AL-Lock
The AL-Lock® is an automatic locking system with a mechanism that clicks into place when windows are closed. JELD-WEN’s patented AL-Lock system is available on our single hung and sliding vinyl windows.
“Many window locks are made of plastic, but our AL locking systems are 100 percent metal,” says Keri Brookshire, product line manager at JELD-WEN. “The lock’s design provides strength and structural integrity. And it has been tested to meet the toughest standards — including forced-entry resistance — for maximum security.”
Take action to prevent falls
Along with choosing AL Lock and WOCD systems, there are several additional window safety practices that can help prevent falls and accidents:
- Keep windows closed and locked around young children
- If you like to open windows for fresh air, choose those out of children's reach
- Keep furniture away from windows
- Teach children that window screens are not strong enough to keep them from falling out of windows
- Arrange space for your children to play away from windows, balconies and patio doors
You can learn more about window safety and read additional tips to keep your loved ones safe here.