How to Stop Double Hung Windows From Opening for Child Safety
Double hung windows allow a maximum amount of air flow into your home. They're also easy to clean and maintain. Unfortunately, they can be unsafe for children, especially if they're long and run down close to the floor. More than 15,000 children fall out of all types of open windows every year in America. These falls result in injuries, and fatalities. That's why it's important to stop double hung windows from opening for your child's safety. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Built-in pop-out window stops
- Super Stoppers
- Key-lock window sash latch
- Screwdriver
- Power drill with bit
- Long wood screw
Instructions
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Use the built-in window stops on double hung windows (some Sears windows have them, for example) to keep them from opening. Locate the stops on each side of the top sash. Push the buttons down to allow the stops to pop out. They will allow the bottom sash to open only 3 - 4 inches. To completely stop the double hung windows from opening, wedge 2 small pieces of wood between each stop and the top of the bottom sash.
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Purchase at least 2 Super Stopper suction cups per double hung window (see resources). Clean each window to remove dirt and grime so this safety product will stick strongly. Then, position each cup on the top pane so the window can't be opened. Press the center of each stopper firmly to adhere it to the glass.
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Replace the window latch on a double hung window with a key-lock window sash latch. Simply remove the screws on the old latch and remove it. Screw the new latch into place. Lock it with the key to keep the window closed. Put the key in a safe place.
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Drill a pilot hole into a wooden, double hung window sash at the bottom of the top sash, and at the top of the bottom sash, where the two overlap. Drill clear through the bottom sash, and into the top sash, but be careful not to drill all the way through. Then, countersink a long wood screw into the hole to stop double hung windows from opening for child safety.
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Tips & Warnings
No matter what device you use to keep double hung windows from opening, there's no substitution for proper parental supervision. Drilling a hole into a wooden window sash may void the manufacturer's warranty.
Resources
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Comments
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After looking around for window guards and seeing several ideas. I think I will use those peel and stick removable hooks from Command since I live in military housing at the moment. That way they can be removed but they will hold better than the suction cups. That will cure the issue for less than $5 per window and I can pick them up my next trip to Walmart. Thanks for the idea!
