As we move into the warmer months, many Tri-Cities residents are cracking open their windows to let in any wisp of a cool breeze — all fine until a child plummets from the window to the ground.
So far this year, BC Children’s Hospital has treated six children who have fallen from windows or balconies. In 2018, that number reached 15. Most of the incidents occur between April and September, and 77% occur at home, according to the hospital.
“I’ve had the terrifying experience of having my child fall out of a window in my house,” said Mike through a hospital press release, whose 4-year-old son survived a fall from a second-storey window in April.
“Fortunately, he is recovering remarkably well. I feel like my family has been given a second chance so I want to help get the message out about how important it is to regularly childproof the windows and balconies of your home.”
Two-thirds of falls from windows and balconies involve children six and under, after which most sustain injuries to the head, as well as fractures to the shoulders and upper arms.
Now BC Children’s Hospital is asking families in the Tri-Cities and across B.C. to ensure there children are safe near balconies and windows.
“Toddlers are especially vulnerable because they are curious, they love to climb and often don’t recognize when they are putting themselves at risk,” said Dr. Genevieve Ernst, trauma medical director at BC Children’s Hospital.
