Published on:
23
November 2012
Clackmannanshire and Stirling Trading Standards Service has recently completed a project to raise awareness of the dangers associated with looped blind cords.
These cords and chains can pose a risk for babies, children and vulnerable people and can result in strangulation or serious injury.
Looped cords are a common mechanism on blinds and other window dressings currently fitted in UK homes.
They also feature on new products which include blinds that are made-to-measure and those bought 'off the shelf'.
As part of the Make It Safe project Trading Standards issued over 3000 Make It Safe packs to nurseries and playgroups throughout Stirling and Clackmannanshire.
The pack included some basic information as well as a cleat. A cleat is a safety device that a looped cord can be wrapped around to keep it out of the reach of children. Cleats have been designed to reduce the risk of looped blind cords.
Clackmannanshire Council Leader Gary Womersley, said: "Our Trading Standards Service has done a magnificent job in highlighting the dangers of blind cords and chains to many local groups and parents across the area.
"However, there may be some people who would like a 'Make It Safe' pack, and we would urge them to get in touch with our Trading Standards Officers who can help them reduce the risks to our young citizens."
Looped cords are a common mechanism on blinds and other window dressings currently fitted in UK homes.
Research indicates that most accidental deaths involving blind cords happen in the bedroom and occur in children between 16 months and 36 months old, with the majority (more than half) happening at around 23 months. To reduce the risk posed by looped cords, including blind cords, cords should be kept out of the reach of children.
Make it safe:
- - Install blinds that do not have a cord, particularly in a child's bedroom
- - Do not place a child's cot, bed, playpen or highchair near a window
- - Pull cords on curtains and blinds should be kept short and kept out of reach
- - Tie up the cords or use one of the many cleats, cord tidies, clips or ties that are available
- - Do not hang toys or objects that could be a hazard on the cot or bed
- - Don't hang drawstring bags where a small child could get their head through the loop of the drawstring.
If you have not received a pack and would like one or more information contact Trading Standards Officer on 0845 277 7000 or email tradingstandards@clacks.gov.uk