Alberta Health Services is reminding people of the risks that open windows, and balcony doors can pose for young children.
Last year in Alberta 175 children were brought to emergency room because of incidents involving window and balcony falls. 20 of those children required hospitalization. In the first four months of 2017, 23 children have already been brought to emergency rooms for these type of incidents.
AHS says taking precautions such as moving furniture away from windows, or installing window guards on all windows on or above the second floor will help keep children safe. They say to also remain aware of open windows, or to install devices that will limit how far a window can be opened. If you do have a balcony, the vertical posts should be no more than ten centimetres apart. AHSÂ adds that the best way to ensure your child is protected is through direct supervision.