DANGER DANGLING IN QUEENSLAND HOMES

Queensland parents are warned that common household window coverings such as blinds, curtains and shades may be a tragedy waiting to happen.

Fair Trading Minister Margaret Keech said that cords used to open and close certain blinds, curtains and shades can pose a serious strangulation risk for small children.

Hiding and playing behind curtains may be a fun game for many youngsters however children have died by becoming entangled in the low hanging loop created by blind cords.

Mrs Keech said the seriousness of the issue prompted the Beattie Government to introduce a mandatory safety standard in February 2006.

“The standard requires looped cords on all new blinds and curtains fitted to sit at 1.6 metres above the bottom of the blind, have warning labels and be accompanied by written safety instructions,” Mrs Keech said.

“Although the new standards apply to window coverings installed after 3 February 2006, consumers whose blinds, curtains and shades were installed prior to this date should check that their window coverings are safe, and:

·do not tie cords together as it creates a loop where children can become entangled;

·do not put beds, cots, playpens and other furniture near blind and curtain cords;

·if possible cut cords short, they should be at least 1.6 metres above the bottom of the blind;

·consider replacing cords with a curtain or blind wand; or

·consider purchasing a device to wrap long cords around such as cleats or tie down cords. The cleats can be screwed into the window frame or wall to hook up the cords so they are above 1.6m from the ground.

Mrs Keech said reducing product related injuries is a top priority for the Office of Fair Trading.

“Traders and parents also play a key role in making sure only safe products make it into our homes.

“Traders must comply with safety standards and keep unsafe products off retail shelves.

“Parents need to supervise their children carefully and follow age recommendations when purchasing products for their family.

“Everyone has a role to play in ensuring products that make their way into our homes are safe.”

For more product safety information contact the Office of Fair Trading on 13 13 04 or visit www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au to get a free Curtain and blind cord safety fact sheet.

Media Contact: David Smith on 3225 1005 or Karla Steen 3224 2007