Child Peering from Window
In a bid to stem the rising number of children falling out of windows in the city, Jana Kamerdinov, the acting head of the city's emergency rescue squad, has urged parents and guardians to take immediate action.
According to Kamerdinov, these accidents occur in various districts and from buildings of varying heights, with the number remaining unacceptably high. She emphasises that such incidents increase during warm weather, making it all the more crucial to address this issue.
Kamerdinov advises parents to discuss the danger of playing on windowsills with their children and to avoid leaving them unattended in the apartment. Moreover, furniture, chairs, and tables should not be placed near windows.
The actions of parents or guardians that lead to a child falling out of a window could be considered under Article 125 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan "Abandonment in danger" or Article 156 "Failure to fulfill duties of upbringing" if negligence led to an accident.
To minimise the risk of these accidents, Kamerdinov recommends several practical measures. Firstly, she suggests installing window guards that allow for emergency escape but prevent children from falling out. These can be installed on windows that are within reach of children.
Secondly, promoting awareness and education is key. Community campaigns can inform parents about the dangers of open windows and the importance of supervision, while safety lessons can be incorporated into school curricula to educate children about window safety.
Using window stops, which allow windows to be opened only a few inches, is another effective measure. Residents can purchase and install these devices themselves.
Supervision and monitoring are also essential. Parents should ensure that children are always supervised, especially near windows, and regularly inspect homes for potential hazards and ensure that windows are secure.
Community engagement is vital in this effort. Neighbours should look out for each other's children and report any unsafe situations, while support groups for parents can share safety tips and advice.
Collaboration with local authorities is crucial. Policy changes, such as requiring window guards in homes with young children, can be enacted, and funding can be sought for window safety initiatives and community education programmes.
Regular maintenance, including inspecting windows for proper functioning and installing screen doors or mesh screens to prevent children from accessing windows, is also recommended.
Kamerdinov further suggests installing protective devices like acrylic glass grilles and mosquito nets to prevent children from falling out of windows. "Everything should be done to prevent these accidents," she believes.
By implementing these measures, residents can significantly reduce the risk of children falling out of windows, improving safety and well-being in their communities.
Science and health-and-wellness are crucial in addressing the issue of children falling out of windows. Jana Kamerdinov, the acting head of the city's emergency rescue squad, recommends installing window guards, promoting awareness and education, using window stops, and regular maintenance to decrease the risk of such accidents.
