How to child proof doors and windows safely

Every parent or carer knows how quickly young children become curious about their surroundings. Doors and windows, while essential for daily living, can also pose hidden dangers to toddlers and young children.

Installing child proof doors and child proof windows isn’t just about peace of mind – it’s a crucial step in protecting children from avoidable accidents or wandering outside unsupervised.

Introduction to Child Proof Doors and Windows

In this comprehensive guide, we explore the best practices for child proofing doors and windows safely, especially in ground-floor rooms and homes with accessible gardens. We also look at how professional locksmiths, such as SMR Locksmiths Ltd, play a vital role in improving the safety of your property.

Why Child Proof Doors and Windows Matter

According to RoSPA (The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents), falls are the most common accidents for children at home. Many of these involve falls from windows or accidents with doors. In urban environments like London, where properties often have multiple exits and windows near ground level, installing child proof doors and child proof windows becomes even more important.

Whether it’s preventing pinched fingers, stopping children from slipping out unnoticed, or ensuring windows cannot be fully opened, safety measures must be in place before an accident occurs.

Key Features of a Child Proof Door

A child proof door is more than just a locked entrance. It must include:

• Thumbturn locks or high-mounted locks – Out of reach for children
• Soft-close mechanisms – Reduces the risk of pinched fingers
• Latch guards – Prevents small hands from unlocking internal doors

For families with older siblings or frequent visitors, ensuring that internal doors also have suitable child proofing measures is essential.

Essential Elements of Child Proof Windows

Installing child proof windows is critical for any home with children, especially those on the ground floor or above. Key options include:

• Window restrictors – These prevent windows from opening wide enough for a child to fall through
• Key-operated locking mechanisms – Offers control and security, with keys kept out of reach
• Shatter-resistant film or glazing – Adds an extra layer of protection to prevent injury from broken glass

These features are ideal for sash, casement, and tilt-and-turn window styles commonly found in UK homes.

Best Locations to Install Child Proof Locks

Child proof doors and windows should be installed particularly in:

• Nurseries and playrooms – where children spend unsupervised time
• Kitchens and bathrooms – areas with additional hazards like cleaning products or water
• Ground floor bedrooms or garden exits – to prevent children from accessing the outdoors without supervision

Choosing the Right Products

Parents can choose from a variety of child safety products, but not all are equal. Common products include:

• Slide locks for patio doors
• Finger pinch guards for hinged doors
• Cling-film style window guards for basic protection

However, for a truly secure solution, you should always consider professionally installed child proof doors and windows.

Why Professional Installation Matters

Off-the-shelf locks and guards are not always installed correctly or suited to all types of doors and windows. That’s where SMR Locksmiths Ltd comes in. Based in London and serving areas including Streatham, Norbury, and nearby postcodes, the company offers:

• DBS-checked locksmiths – For peace of mind
• High-quality child safety locks – Tested and compliant with UK safety regulations
• Installation of custom solutions – Tailored to your door/window type and room use
• Fast response and competitive pricing – Local service you can trust

By choosing expert locksmiths, you can be sure that your child proof doors and child proof windows meet both practical and insurance requirements.

Tips for Child Proofing French Doors and Sliding Glass Doors

French doors and patio doors are particularly challenging for child safety. Tips include:

• Install multi-point locking mechanisms out of child reach
• Use patio door bolts with push-button release for added security
• Ensure glass has safety film to reduce risk if broken

SMR Locksmiths Ltd can upgrade or modify existing patio systems to include these features.

Ensuring Garden Access Remains Safe

If your child has access to a garden, installing child proof doors leading outside is essential. Use features like:

• Thumbturn locks on exterior doors
• High-positioned bolts
• Sensor-activated alarms for sliding or back doors

These features prevent unsupervised outdoor access while still allowing adults and older children ease of use.

Window Restrictors: An Overlooked Hero

Child proof windows often rely on one unsung component – the restrictor. These small devices:

• Prevent windows from opening more than 100 mm
• Are required by some building regulations in rental properties
• Can be installed discreetly with little visual impact

SMR Locksmiths Ltd offers quick fitting of key-locked or concealed restrictors suitable for all window types.

Signs Your Child Proof Locks Need Attention

Even the best locks degrade over time. Signs to look out for include:

• Difficulty turning keys or thumbturns
• Loose handles or bolt movement
• Children showing interest in locks or trying to operate them

Regular inspection is advised, and SMR Locksmiths can perform home safety assessments to spot weaknesses.

Tailored Solutions for Flats and HMOs

For landlords or families living in shared homes or flats:

• Child proof doors must not obstruct fire exits
• Windows must meet both safety and escape standards
• Shared access areas require high-mounted locks

SMR Locksmiths Ltd can advise on compliant solutions for all types of London housing.

Final Thoughts on Child Proof Doors and Windows

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to home safety. Each property and family will need tailored solutions to ensure their child proof doors and child proof windows are effective and convenient. The key is to act before there’s an incident.

With the help of professional locksmiths like SMR Locksmiths Ltd, you can make your home not only more secure but safer for the youngest members of your family. For installations, upgrades or emergency lock solutions, get in touch with their team for trusted advice and support.

Contact SMR Locksmiths Ltd

Website: smrlocksmiths.co.uk
Areas Covered: Streatham, Norbury, Balham, Clapham, Tooting, and surrounding areas in South London
Services: Emergency locksmithing, child safety lock installation, security assessments, and more
Call Now: 020 8050 9300