First and foremost this is a safety issue. Every year small children and pets die from strangulation when they become tangled in the cords from blinds and shades. The hazards are real and need to be addressed when considering what type of window treatments to install in your nursery and indeed your entire home.

The Window Coverings Safety Council was formed by a group of manufacturers to research and design safer window treatments and also to help customers deal with the options available to make old blinds and shades safe.

If you are shopping for new blinds or shades, you have a variety of options. Some of the newer items eliminate the need for cords. Remote controlled window coverings are growing in popularity. These are controlled by a devise similar to your TV remote. Also, there are other products that keep the cord system tight. Ask your local dealer to explain the child safety measures the manufacturer has included in any treatment before you purchase.

There is also another hazard with blinds: lead. In 1996, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) determined that some of these vinyl blinds can present a lead poisoning hazard for young children. They found that over time the plastic on non-glossy, vinyl miniblinds deteriorates from exposure to sunlight and heat to form lead dust on the surface of the blind. In homes where children ages 6 and younger may be present, CPSC recommends that consumers remove older vinyl miniblinds and replace with blinds that have been certified lead free on each individual package. If the label doesn't mention the lead content, do not buy the blinds.

If you have blinds (usually older blinds) which have a continuous cord, the easiest and quickest way to safety is to cut the cord into two pieces, tie off the ends of both pieces and attach a decorative tassel to each end. If you feel unsure of the design of your blind or shade and are concerned about damage to the equipment, call WCSC at 800-506-4636 for assistance. They offer a pamphlet on how to childproof your window treatments. They also offer, free of charge, devices to assist you in making your treatments safe.

Please, do not discount the importance of these issues!

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