Unfortunately and without fail, as the temperature warms in summertime, several children fall out of windows each year in the Bay Area alone. Nationally, nearly 5,000 children are injured as a result of a fall from a window, with an average of 18 fatalities each year. The good news is that depending upon the type of window, the solution may be quite simple.
The most common scenario for a child to fall from a window involves the window being partially or fully open for ventilation and the child pressing against a screen that ultimately gives way. Screens are designed to keep bugs out, not children in, so never rely on them as a safety device. Ideally, all upper-story windows should have a secondary latching mechanism that allows them to open only four inches or less for ventilation. It is important that the latching mechanism be removable by an adult so as to allow for emergency escape from a fire.
Sliding Windows: These are typically the easiest to secure. A simple screw clamp mounted in the upper track at the four-inch open mark will do the trick.
Double Hung: Sliding pin latches are available for wooden double hung windows. Vinyl windows can be secured with specialty child safety products, namely a Burglar Bar or Super Stopper. Both of these are clear, attach directly to the glass, and are available through online retailers.
Casement: These windows, because of their crank-out design, are often tricky. A chain or cable can often be attached to the window and frame such that the opening is limited to four inches.
Gates: For windows with bench seats, those that are very low to the ground or those that need to be opened greater than four inches for ventilation, a window gate may be necessary. Specifically designed window gates are available, but often a stair gate can also be used.
One of the most important safety measures you can take is to relocate items that your child may climb on to access the windows. Chairs, tables, shelves, and dressers are often the means that children utilize to get up against the windows, so keep a clear space below upper-story windows whenever possible.
Finally, it is quite rare for a child to break through a window and fall, but it does occur. The lower the window and the thinner the glass, the greater the likelihood of this occurring. If breakage is a concern for you, gates, window film or Plexiglas may be necessary. Newer, double-pane windows are very difficult for a child to break through, but even a brand-new window requires some form of secondary latching.