(NAPSA)—While nothing can me replace the watchful eye of a par- ent or caregiver, there are a num- ber of things you can do to increase safety around window areas, Budget Blinds, the leading custom window coverings franchise, encourages new parents to replace window treatments featuring looped cords with cordless or motorized options to minimize strangulation hazards. The companyoffers this checklist: Replace all corded blinds, shades and draperies manufactured before 2001 with today’s safer products. Move cribs, beds and furniture away from windows. Install retractable cords that remain at a constant length when the shade is not being operated, making them less accessible to children and pets. e Eliminate dangling cords altogether by installing cordless or motorized window coverings. “Cordless window coverings are now widely available and cost-efficient,” said Tracy Christ- man, director of Budget Blinds Vendor Alliance. She listed a number of features to look for when shopping for new window treatments or moving into a new home. Cordless Window Treatments—This innovative feature allows you to raise and lower window coverings easily with one hand. Eliminating cords provides added safety and a sleeker, uncluttered look. Motorized Window Treatments—Using a battery-operated "Nee If your window treatments were purchased before 2001, consider replacing them with new window treatments that conform to today’s safety standards. remote control, you can raise, lower, tilt or open and close your window coverings at the touch of a button. Wand—Some window treatments, such as horizontal blinds and vertical blinds, are available with a control wand as opposed to a pull cord. Breakaway Tassels—If you must have control cords, make sure they have breakaway tassels. Inner Cord Stops—tThis feature prevents the inner cords from being pulled out where they could pose a strangulation hazard to children and pets. Cord Cleats—Cord cleats keep continuous cord loops tightly secured against the wall so they cannot be pulled away or played with. For more safety tips, visit www.budgetblinds.com/safety.
