Blind Cords

Around two children a year in the UK are strangled to death after becoming entangled in looped blind cords. It can take just 15 seconds for a toddler to lose consciousness in this situation and they can die in 2 to 3 minutes.

Toddlers and young children are at greatest risk from window blind pull cords. This is because proportionally their heads weigh more than their bodies and their muscle control is not fully developed. This means it is hard for them to free themselves if they get caught in a blind cord. Also, a young child’s windpipe is narrow and soft so they can suffocate very quickly when their necks are constricted. Toddlers love to climb and explore so they may climb up onto furniture or a windowsill but can struggle to steady themselves if they wobble.

Ensure all blind cords are fitted with a safety device and get into the habit of tying up blinds every time they are used.

Make sure that cots and beds, highchairs and playpens are well away from looped blind cords.