Stay safe this summer

Warmer weather means more of us are opening windows, but falls from windows are more common than people might think. 

The Window Safety Task Force offers some tips to help protect children from accidental window falls. 

• When young children are around, keep windows closed and locked 
• When opening windows for ventilation, use ones that are out of the reach of children 
• Do not place furniture near windows that young children can climb on 
• Don't allow children to jump on beds or other furniture to help reduce potential falls 
• Don't rely on insect screens. They are designed to keep bugs out, not to keep children in. 
• Be aware of strangulation risks, such as loose or looped cords covering windows, for example on blinds. Most products sold today are cordless or have short cords, but replacement of older, corded window coverings is strongly recommended. 

All upper floor windows in BCH properties should be fitted with window restrictors. It is important not to remove or override these window restrictors, as they are designed to keep you safe in your home.

If for any reason your property does not have window restrictors, please report this to the Repairs Team as soon as possible so that they can be installed by emailing repairs@bch.co.uk or calling 01253 477900 (select option 2).