Did you know that one to two children per year in Australia die from blind and curtain strangulation?

While confronting, this data from Blind Cord Safety Australia highlights the importance of ensuring that blinds and curtains comply with official safety standards.

WHAT ARE THE RISKS WITH CURTAIN AND BLIND CORDS?

 Both cord and chain looped guide mechanisms are some of the key components of curtains and blinds as it allows users to raise, lower and secure the window furnishing. While serving an important purpose, loose cords and strings pose a threat to young children. The aforementioned statistic gave a glimpse into the deadly consequences of blind cords. But why do they pose such a risk?

Hanging strings and cords can cause children to become entangled, increasing the risk of strangulation.

After several reports of deaths caused by unsecured blind cords, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) implemented a mandatory standard for manufacturers to adhere to when producing blinds, curtains and other window fittings.

Ensuring children are safe near windows is a priority for any parent.

WHAT ARE THE CURTAIN AND BLIND CORD SAFETY REGULATIONS IN AUSTRALIA?

 The requirements set by the ACCC apply to all corded internal window coverings supplied from December 30, 2010. They predominantly refer to the installation process of such window furnishings. Here it states:

• The corded internal window covering must be installed in a way that ensures a loose cord cannot form a loop of 220mm or longer at/or less than 1.6 metres above floor level.
• A cleat used to secure a cord must be installed at least 1.6 metres above floor level.
• All corded and chained internal window coverings must be installed in accordance with the installation
• A person should never remove the warning label attached to the internal window covering.
• Minimise risk by keeping all cords and chains out of their reach, and making sure all children’s beds, cots, highchairs and playpens are positioned away from any windows that are fitted with blinds.
• Consider which product will best suit your area, look at our range of motorised and spring assisted options.

Thankfully, homeowners have peace of mind about their children’s safety when purchasing a window treatment from Carpet Call.

HOW DO CARPET CALL COMPLY WITH THESE REGULATIONS?

All of Carpet Call’s blinds, curtains and other window treatments are designed and manufactured to adhere to the ACCC regulations. As such, we’ve adapted our products to maintain the highest level of safety for all household residents – young or old. Many of our window treatments are now available with child-safe operating systems that eliminate the need for potentially hazardous cord or chain loops.

For optimum blind cord safety, we always recommend enlisting the help of a professional installer to ensure your window treatment adheres to the ACCC recommendations.

If you’d like to find out more about our range of window treatments, why not pop into your local Carpet Call branch today and speak to a member of the team?