Window coverings are an essential component of any home decor, offering privacy, controlling light, and adding aesthetic appeal. In the world of window coverings, blinds hold a place of prominence, with a multitude of styles, colors, and materials available to homeowners. However, blinds, like any other household item, come with their share of safety considerations, especially for households with young children and pets. It’s our commitment at Home Makeover Centre to not just provide superior quality Hunter Douglas blinds and draperies in North Vancouver but to ensure our customers are well-informed about blind and window covering safety.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Blinds Safety
- Child-proof Window Coverings
- Making the Right Selection: Blinds and More
- Proper Installation
- Maintenance Tips for Blinds
- Choosing Professional Installation
- Health Canada Regulations
- Innovations in Blinds Safety
- Compliance Tips
- Conclusion
1. Understanding Blinds Safety
Blinds safety is a critical aspect of home safety that is often overlooked. While blinds and window coverings serve a practical purpose, they also pose certain safety risks. These risks primarily involve young children and pets who may become entangled in blind cords or ingest small, detachable parts. Understanding these risks is the first step towards preventing accidents.
Blind cords, whether looped or not, pose a strangulation risk. Children, especially those under the age of three, can easily become entangled in these cords. Similarly, pets may also become entangled, leading to injuries or fatalities. Blind slats are another concern, as they can trap small fingers causing injuries.
Given these risks, it’s crucial to consider blinds safety as a priority when selecting and installing window coverings in your home. This not only involves choosing safer blinds but also ensuring they’re properly installed and maintained.
Experience child-proof living with our safety shutters in a kid’s room.
2. Child-proof Window Coverings
Child-proofing window coverings is one of the most effective ways to enhance blinds safety. This process involves several steps, ranging from choosing the right type of blinds to using safety devices.
Opt for cordless or motorized blinds whenever possible. These blinds, such as Duette Shades, eliminate the risk of entanglement as they don’t have cords. If cordless blinds aren’t an option, consider using safety devices such as cord cleats and tension devices. These devices keep cords taut or out of reach, reducing the likelihood of entanglement.
Another critical aspect of child-proofing involves positioning furniture appropriately. Ensure that cots, beds, and other furniture that children can climb on are away from windows with corded blinds. This reduces the chance of children reaching blind cords.
Remember, child-proofing window coverings is not a one-time process. Regularly check the condition of the blinds and safety devices, replacing them as necessary.
3. Making the Right Selection: Blinds and More
Selecting the right blinds is not just about matching your interior decor or achieving the desired level of sunlight filtration. It also involves choosing blinds designed with safety in mind. Various options are available that cater to this need, including aluminum blinds, wooden blinds, and vertical blinds.
Consider blinds with breakaway cords or cord stoppers, which prevent cords from forming a dangerous loop. Another option is wand-operated blinds, which eliminate cords altogether. Motorized blinds offer an excellent solution as they operate via a remote control, reducing the risk associated with manual operation.
Besides the product itself, choosing a reputable brand also plays a role in safety. For example, Hunter Douglas blinds are known for their excellent quality and adherence to safety standards.
4. Proper Installation
Proper installation of blinds is critical to their safe use. When blinds aren’t installed correctly, they may not function as they should, leading to safety risks. An improperly installed blind could come loose and fall, posing a physical hazard.
Furthermore, the cords might not operate correctly, potentially creating a strangulation hazard. When installing blinds, follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely. Pay particular attention to cord placement and ensure that cords are out of children’s reach. Professional installation services, like those offered by the Home Makeover Centre, can also ensure blinds are installed safely and securely.
5. Maintenance Tips for Blinds
Regular maintenance of your blinds can also enhance their safety. Check cords regularly to ensure they are in good condition and aren’t fraying. If cords are worn, they should be replaced. Keep cords short and out of reach, and use cord cleats or other safety devices to keep cords taut and prevent tangling.
Blind slats should also be checked and cleaned regularly. Dust and dirt can accumulate on slats, affecting their operation. Use a soft cloth or a vacuum with a brush attachment to clean slats without damaging them.
6. Choosing Professional Installation
While it’s possible to install blinds yourself, professional installation is a safer and more convenient option. Professionals have the expertise to install blinds correctly and safely. They can ensure cords are properly secured and out of reach, and they can give you advice on how to operate and maintain your blinds to keep them safe.
At Home Makeover Centre, we offer professional installation by certified Hunter Douglas installers. Our team is experienced and committed to providing the highest level of service.
7. Health Canada Regulations
Canada has some of the strictest regulations in the world when it comes to blind and window covering safety. The Health Canada’s Corded Window Coverings Regulations aim to protect children from strangulation hazards. All window coverings sold in Canada, whether custom-made or off the shelf, must comply with these regulations.
Understanding these regulations can help you make safer choices when selecting window coverings for your home. It’s also a good idea to consult with a professional who is familiar with these regulations and can guide you accordingly.
8. Innovations in Blinds Safety
Window covering manufacturers are continuously innovating to make their products safer. This includes the development of cordless and motorized blinds, blinds with retractable cords, and blinds with breakaway tassels. These features can significantly reduce the risks associated with blinds and make them safer for homes with young children or pets.
9. Compliance Tips
It’s important to ensure that the blinds you choose comply with safety regulations. Look for blinds that carry the seal of a recognized testing laboratory. These products have been tested to ensure they meet safety standards.
Also, register your blinds with the manufacturer. This will ensure you are notified of any recalls or safety notices. Keep the manufacturer’s instructions for reference and follow them carefully when installing and using your blinds.
10. Conclusion
Blind and window covering safety should never be overlooked. From understanding the risks associated with blinds to choosing safe products and installing them properly, every step is crucial. At Home Makeover Centre, we are committed to providing not only high-quality blinds and window coverings but also valuable information to ensure your home is safe.
