Carrickfergus Borough Council - Blind Cords – Make it Safe!

Children can become entangled in the loop created by a blind or curtain cord

29 May 2012

The theme for this year’s Home Accident Prevention (HAP) week is Blind Cord Safety, and its aim is to increase awareness of the risk associated with blind cords, particularly in relation to children.

Thousands of homes in Northern Ireland may contain a potentially lethal trap for children, especially those under the age of three. They can become entangled in the loop created by a blind or curtain cord and are often unable to call for help and lack the strength to get the cord away from their neck.  Since 1999 at least 22 children have died as a result of blind cords. 

Home Accident Prevention NI (HAPNI) along with RoSPA aim is to prevent accidents which occur in and around the home, reducing injuries and saving lives. The HAP officer at Carrickfergus Borough Council would like to give the following advice regarding blind cords:

• Make sure all cords and chains are always secured out of reach.
• Do not place your child’s cot, bed, high chair or playpen near to a window blind.
• Do not put sofas, chairs, table, shelves or bookcases near to a window blind, as children love to climb.
• When choosing new blinds for homes or places where children or vulnerable people live or visit, always look for a blind that does not contain cords or has concealed cords.
• Safety devices such as cleats, blind cord tidies and chain break connectors are advised for those who have blind cords.

For further information please contact:

Stephanie Rock, Home Accident Prevention Officer
Telephone: 028 93 358080
E-Mail: sec2.envhealth@carrickfergus,org