As the cooler months approach, folks in New York are beginning to open their windows to enjoy the seasonal change. With more frequent window use, it is critical to have proper protection for the children in your life. When the windows are opened to provide fresh air, especially in children’s bedrooms and bathrooms, as well as accessible windows on upper floors, windows should be secured, and if unlocked, should either have a window guard installed or should be limited to open no more than 4.5 inches. Periodically checking to see that the window’s locking mechanism is working properly should also be a part of your fall routine.
In New York, if tenants or occupants want window guards for any reason, even if there are no resident children 10 years of age or younger, the tenant can request the window guards in writing and the landlord must install them. Owners have a responsibility to ensure that window guards are properly installed. For example, grandparents who have visiting children, parents who share custody and occupants who provide child care may wish to request window guards.
If required or requested window guards have not been installed or if they appear to be insecure or improperly installed, or if there is more than 4.5 inches of open unguarded space in the window opening, a complaint should be made immediately, either by calling Sentry Window Guards or calling 311.
WINDOW SCREENS WILL NOT PREVENT A CHILD FROM FALLING OUT!
Window screens are never an acceptable safety device to prevent a child from falling or climbing out of a window. Windows less than 18” above the ground should have a window guard. If you have window guards installing in your home, this is a great time of year to make sure that your window guards have been installed correctly.
- Window guards must be installed right and screwed in tight
- Only New York City approved window guards should be installed. They must be made of strong metal, and (by law) must be installed tightly or they won’t work.
- If a window guard feels wobbly when you push and pull the bars, it could come loose or fall out when a child leans against it or climbs on it.
- The window guard must be screwed in tight on both sides with special screws. If it is loose on either side, it has not been put in right.
- If the window guard is screwed into a rotting window frame or a loose window frame, it could come loose or fall out.
Your family’s safety is our number one priority. Give us a call to come out and check your window guards.
