Norman® actively promotes the public awareness about window covering safety.
We also recognize that younger children have very different safety needs from older adults or other people with special needs.
That's why we've developed a suite of enhanced safety options on our shutter lines based on unique needs.
- All our products, including blinds, shades and shutters are free from VOCs and either meet or exceed international standards, including CARB (California Air Resources Board) standards, for off-gassing of harmful chemicals.
- Optimal™ anti-microbial finish: The long lasting finish reduces accumulation of harmful germs such as staph, e coli and salmonella, perfect for rooms with babies, children or the elderly.
- PerfectTilt® motorization allows you to tilt whole panels of shutter louvers with a remote control, and a solar-powered option is also available. Especially for skylights, the motorized option can prevent accidents that happen resulting from falling when adjusting shutters.
At Norman®, we salute the efforts of all those who are trying to raise awareness of window covering safety during National Window Covering Safety Month in October.
We will always be committed to safety and will continue to support research and development efforts to make window coverings safer.
Other Safety Tips
Another thing to watch out for is to reduce the risk of children falling out of windows. Angel Ventlock™, a company that sells safety hinges, cites statistics stating that every year, 4,000 are injured and 15-20 are killed as a result from falling out of windows.
80% are under four (Office of Information and Public Affairs). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Mwql9cEeeA&feature=plcp
Further, the Window Covering Safety Council (WCSC) advises that consumers make children's rooms a priority when considering safety upgrades.
The WCSC advice includes:
- Window areas: Since babies and young children can fall through windows and window screens or become entangled in window cords, WCSC suggests that accidents can be prevented by placing the crib, bed, playpen, or low-standing furniture away from windows. Further, window coverings made before 2001 should be replaced with the safer products of today, such as cordless or corded options with safety features. Norman® products feature a suite of safety features just for this purpose.
- Cribs: Look for cribs that comply with the latest safety standards and follow precautions set forth by the U.S. Consumer Product Commission (CPSC). Make sure that the mattress fits tightly within the crib, footboards and headboards are free of decorative cutouts and do not use corner-post extensions. Further, safety guidelines require that cribs now have slats that are 2 3/8” apart at most. If you’re using a hand-me-down or an heirloom crib, make sure the crib is sturdy, does not have missing pieces and is free from lead-based paint.
- Bedding: Soft and fluffy bedding, including comforters and pillows, may smother a baby, say experts. Use discretion in making bedding choices for your children.
- More tips: Cover all electrical outlets; use a spring-loaded chest so the child will not risk head or neck injuring from the lid falling; make sure changing tables have safety straps; keep diaper ointment, baby powder and other baby products accessible to the caregiver but out of reach of children.
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