How to protect young kids from dangling window blind cords

Cords left hanging from window blinds injured more than 16,000 children younger than 6 years old between 1990 and 2015, according to a recent study, but simple changes can reduce the risk.

The cords can attract the attention of young children, who can get tangled in them, according to Dr. Kimberly Giuliano, of the Cleveland Clinic.

"The cords that come off of blinds or window shades dangle and kids are drawn to them, (and) they really like to play with them," Giulino said. "The problem is, is that dangling cord can easily become wrapped around a child's neck, especially very young children, and can cause strangulation and death."

Giuliano said the best way to prevent a child from getting hurt is to secure the cords so they are out of reach of youngsters.

Certain safety devices can be installed that allow parents to wrap the cords up and out of reach reach. Parents can tie the cords up high enough—over drapes or a curtain rod—but need to make sure they are secure and won't fall down, Giuliano said.

No child safety measure is supposed to replace close supervision, though. Giuliano said vigilance isn't just for crawlers and toddlers, but also for young school aged children, too.

"Sometimes parents do let their guard down once children become a little bit older and more independent," Giuliano said. "But really, children of all ages need close and frequent supervision."