Blind cords spark tragedy warning

Oldham parents are being warned about the dangers of loose blind cords after two children were strangled in Staffordshire.

Trading Standards officers say traders and customers should be alert to the potential danger of loose cords on window blinds and curtains.

A new national safety standard for blinds has been introduced after the accidental deaths of two children in separate incidents in Staffordshire in February.

The new standard means a warning notice advising of the risk of strangulation be displayed and designs should mean cords and loops are not accessible by children, or that a safety device is provided with the blind.

Officers advise people to keep furniture such as chairs, sofas, shelves and tables well away from windows to prevent children from climbing up and reaching curtains and blinds.

Never put a cot, bed, highchair or playpen within reach of an operating cord.

Cords ending in a loop are at particular risk. Cut the cord or chain to get rid of the loop and attach a tassel to the end of each strand.

Where cords cannot be cut, keep as short as possible and use a cord tidy or clip, available from blind retailers or hardware stores, to pull the cord tight and secure it to a wall or floor. A free factsheet for retailers can be obtained on 0161-770 4100.

Councillor Rod Blyth, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Public Protection, said: “I would urge parents, carers and manufacturers just to take a couple of minutes to study these new guidelines as they could help prevent serious injury.”