The topic today is a bit sobering, yet I believe it needs to be brought to attention. It’s something my husband and I didn’t even contemplate until 1) we had children of our own and 2) we moved into a house with more than one story. To begin, here are some startling facts:
- About 18 children ages 10 and under die annually from falls from windows.
- Another 4,700 children ages 14 and under will require treatment each year for window fall-related injuries.
(stats taken from Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital of New York- Presbyterian)
When we began replacing the original windows in our 1970s-era home, we quickly realized that the vinyl windows available on the market were not crafted with safety in mind. Storm windows are not needed with the new, more energy-efficient window models made today. In truth, the former storm windows provided me a tad bit of security, seeing as they were an added layer/barrier to the outside.
When we shopped for new vinyl windows, all we found were ones that had easy-to-raise, non-lockable, flimsy screens. Upon questioning, we found that, in the stores within our town, none of the windows in stock had significant safety measures in place, nor were alternative models available for ordering. The only thing available on these vinyl windows was a simple flip-tab mechanism that limited the window’s opening to around 4 inches. We quickly learned that our 4-year-old had mastered the task of lifting and lowering this tab.
Finally, the salesperson referred us to window locks that would replace the original flip locks, the new locks requiring a key to open (which we could hide). Sounded like a perfect solution — until we got back home and realized that the new, slim-line vinyl windows we had were too narrow to allow the key locks to be installed. Now what!?
I admit, I began to think we’d have to install metal bars on the outside of our house to ensure no accidents happened. This seemed just as absurd, however, and so I began to take my search elsewhere and expand my product research.
That’s when I found the Window Wedge. The Window Wedge was created and patented by Randy Cresci, a retired NYPD detective who responded to many a case of window-related falls and accidents involving children. He knew there must be a better way to lessen these incidents….and the Window Wedge came about.
The design is simple yet novel: Velcro strips easily adhere to the rim of the upper window, upon which a wedge is applied at the height preferred. The Window Wedge will only hold tighter the harder a child lifts up on the lower window, ensuring no further window opening than you, the parents, decides on and sets. (For optimum safety, a maximum of 4 inches is recommended.)
Not only does this product keep children IN, it helps keep would-be intruders OUT; breaking into a home through a window becomes impossible with the Window Wedge in place. (Of course, we’d like to emphasize that children should never be left unattended, even with the Window Wedges in place. Many falls can be prevented if parental supervision is fully present.)
In case of emergency, however, the wedge can easily be removed by an adult for full window extension. No tools required for either installation or emergency removal!
My husband was supremely impressed by how easy the Window Wedge was to install on our upstairs windows. They were very low-profile and hardly noticeable, as well….which is not only a plus for cosmetic’s sake, but also so it won’t draw a child’s attention to it. Here is the Window Wedge installed onto our daughter’s window:
Not even noticeable — and are very, very affordable — yet the comfort and peace of mind it affords my husband and me is priceless. I am so thankful I found out about the Window Wedge. Don’t hesitate; order some for your home today. You can order them from a number of online and catalog retailers (complete list here).
Win it! One of you will win six packages of Window Wedges (2 Window Wedges per pack)! All you need to do is head over to the Window Wedge’s site and browse around. Come back here and tell me something you learned in one comment….a fact, a benefit, or a store/catalog where these can be found. I’ll close the contest next Friday, January 23rd, 2009 at 11pm EST. Sorry ~~ US entries only; duplicate commenters will be disqualified. Good luck!
Amber (3 years ago)
I’ve thought about this a lot as Josiah gets older. I was thinking of some kind of bars too – ugh! I am definitely adding this to my “to buy” list if I don’t win! I see it is sold at One Step Ahead – they have some other things on my list so I would get them there. Thanks for making me aware of the product!
LaDonna F (3 years ago)
I like that these also help keep your house safe. We have many windows at ground level and my husband travels alot so I am constantly checking latches on windows to ensure they are locked. These would help me sleep at night knowing that no one would be able to get in.
Marcy (3 years ago)
I just love how easy it is to install! There is also a link on the “Where to Buy” page to a YouTube video demonstration of the Window Wedge!
Carica (3 years ago)
Thanks for the review – it’s a topic I’ve thought a lot about, but I’ve hesitated on buying the bars. This seems like a much more reasonable solution!
Carica (3 years ago)
Oops! I forgot to mention it is sold on One Step Ahead, which is also the place I was going to get the window bars!
Heather (3 years ago)
This is my worst nightmare and every summer I struggle with opening windows. I love that it is Easy Hook & Loop Installation- No Tools, No Screws, No Nails, No Damage!
jeanne (3 years ago)
can be purchased at safe-tot.com
gahome2mom (3 years ago)
Made and Packaged in the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Marci (3 years ago)
Can be used in Vertical or Horizontal windows.
We are in need of these as we can never open our top story windows of fear that our daughters would fall out.
Rachel (3 years ago)
“kidproteq” is one of the stores that sells the Window Wedge. Thanks so much!
Michele P. (3 years ago)
I like the fact that it’s made in the USA and you can buy it at One Step Ahead for about $4.95 a package, very affordable!
Sara (3 years ago)
I love that this product is made by a retired NYPD man. That shows the heart and thought behind this innovative product!
Jayme (3 years ago)
i learned that The Window Wedge installs easily. No Tools Required. that’s great!!
Tanya Moyer (3 years ago)
This product is great! I live in a one-story, but I love the Added Home Security- Helps deter unlawful entry from outsiders. Let fresh air in and sleep easier! What a great concept! Great giveaway – thanks for offering it!
~Tanya
the4moyers(at)msn(dot)com
Zoe (3 years ago)
Terrific product.I wish we would’ve had this years ago.
angela (3 years ago)
These can be located at safe dots. com I remember so many stories of children following out of windows to their deaths. My favorite song was inspired when the songwriters own child fell out of the window to their death.
shopannies@yahoo.com
Noreen (3 years ago)
I have been looking for something like these.
The Window Wedge® is Proudly made in the U.S.A.
Beth (3 years ago)
These can be found at One Step Ahead…And I must admit, I receive their catalog but have never seen these! I’ll definately be on the lookout!!
Mary A (3 years ago)
The window wedges are made in the United States. Thanks for the giveaway.
Danielle (3 years ago)
Sadly we had a close realitve fall out her bedroom window…3 weeks in ICU! I love how easy it is to use & install this product. It is also sold at One step ahead my fav. home saftey site!
mcginnisfamily5(at)gmail(dot)com
Leslie M. (3 years ago)
I think it is cool that you can install it without any tools. The easier the better!
Annmarie (3 years ago)
They’re made of Durable ABS Plastic.
Barbara P (3 years ago)
wow! Made and Packaged in the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
Brooke (3 years ago)
I could ABSOLUTELY use these!!!
They’re made in the USA and they can be found online at Peek-a-Boo BabyProofing.
Leah (3 years ago)
I love these genius safety gadgets are made and packaged in the USA! : )))
Thanks so much for this give~away! : )))
leahita[at]gmail[dot]com