As a leading provider of custom window blinds in Leeds and Wakefield, we understand that child safety is paramount when it comes to window treatments. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about child-safe blinds and how to ensure your home remains a safe environment for children.
Understanding the Importance of Blind Safety Every year, incidents involving window blind cords pose serious risks to young children. This is why the British Blind and Shutter Association (BBSA) launched their ‘Make it Safe’ campaign, establishing crucial safety standards for window blinds across the UK.
What are the current Child Safety Regulations?
Current Safety Regulations Since February 2014, all window blinds must comply with the BS EN 13120:2009+A1:2014 safety requirements. These regulations mandate several important safety measures. All new blinds must be manufactured with safety as a fundamental design principle, not just an afterthought. Professional installations are required to include appropriate safety devices as standard practice. Any blinds featuring looped cords and chains must have child safety devices installed during the manufacturing process. Additionally, all operating cords must be positioned and secured well out of reach of children to prevent accidents.
Types of Child-Safe Blinds:
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Cordless Blinds: Perfect Fit blinds offer a seamless solution as they clip directly into your window frames, eliminating the need for dangerous cords. Motorised blinds provide convenient operation through remote controls, making them both safe and practical. Spring-loaded roller blinds offer a manual but cord-free alternative that’s easy to operate.
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Safety Features for Traditional Blinds: Modern cord cleats and tensioners keep loose cords safely secured against the wall. Chain break connectors are designed to separate under pressure, preventing entanglement risks. Wand operations have replaced traditional cords in many designs, offering a much safer alternative. Safety clips and devices are installed to keep chains and cords firmly secured.
- Shutters: Interior shutters represent one of the safest window covering options available for homes with young children. At Solaire Blinds, our premium shutters are crafted with integrated child safety features. The adjustable louvres are controlled by either a central tilt rod or a hidden tilt system, eliminating any dangerous hanging cords or chains. The robust construction means there are no loose parts that could pose a risk to curious little ones. Additionally, when fully closed, shutters provide an extra layer of security to windows, making them an excellent choice for children’s bedrooms and playrooms. With a variety of styles available, from full-height to tier-on-tier designs, shutters offer both safety and versatility.
The Make it Safe Campaign
The BBSA’s Make it Safe campaign has several key focuses. The campaign actively works to raise awareness about the dangers associated with blind cords through public education initiatives. It promotes the development and adoption of safer blind designs across the industry. The campaign provides valuable education to parents and caregivers about child safety and blinds. Through participating retailers like ourselves, it ensures the provision of free safety devices to all customers. The campaign also emphasises the importance of professional installations for optimal safety.
Making Existing Blinds Safer
For homes with older blind installations, several safety measures can be implemented. Install cord cleats at a minimum height of 1.5 metres from the floor to keep cords out of children’s reach. All loose cords and chains should be properly secured using appropriate safety devices. Furniture should be positioned away from windows to prevent climbing access to blinds. Regular safety checks should be conducted to ensure all components are secure and functioning correctly. Consider upgrading to modern child-safe alternatives for optimal safety.
Professional Installation Matters At Solaire Blinds
Our commitment to safety is comprehensive. We strictly adhere to all BBSA guidelines in every installation we perform. Every customer receives free child safety devices as part of our service. Our team provides expert advice on selecting the most appropriate child-safe options for your home. We ensure all installations meet or exceed current safety standards. Each installation includes a detailed safety demonstration to ensure proper use and maintenance. To see how to make existing vertical blinds child safe, check out this video.
Choosing Child-Safe Blinds for Your Home
When selecting blinds, consider several key factors. Evaluate how each room is used and who needs to access the blinds. Take into account window height and location when choosing operating mechanisms. Consider the placement of furniture in relation to windows and blind controls. Think about your preferences for different operating mechanisms. Balance style and functionality requirements with safety considerations.
Maintenance and Regular Checks
Maintaining child safety requires ongoing attention. Monthly checks of all safety devices should be performed to ensure they remain secure. Regular inspections for wear and tear help identify potential issues early. Any damaged components should be replaced immediately to maintain safety standards. Keep installation and safety instructions accessible for future reference. Ensure older children understand blind safety and proper operation.
Smart Technology Solutions
Modern technology offers excellent safety solutions. Smart motorised blinds provide convenient, cord-free operation. Voice-controlled systems offer hands-free adjustment options. Timer-based systems can be programmed for automatic operation. Mobile app controls allow remote operation from anywhere in the home. Battery-operated options provide cord-free convenience without complex installation requirements.
Child safety is at the heart of our business at Solaire Blinds. As BBSA-accredited professionals, we’re committed to providing safe, stylish window solutions for Yorkshire homes. Whether you’re installing new blinds or upgrading existing ones, we’re here to ensure your window treatments meet all safety standards while complementing your home’s décor.
For expert advice on child-safe window blinds or to arrange a free home consultation, contact our team today. Your family’s safety is our priority.
