H.2500 An Act enhancing child safety: window guards

​

Each year, window falls account for eight deaths and approximately 3,000 injuries among children 5 and under each year nationally. Children living in apartment buildings fall from windows at five times the rate of children living in other types of homes. These injuries primarily occur in urban rental housing and disproportionately impact low-income communities and communities of color.

Injuries resulting from window falls are preventable. After window guard requirements took effect in New York City, the incidence of falls by children from windows decreased by 96 percent over 10 years. This legislation would require landlords to install window guards if the window is higher than 6 feet off the ground. If the window is an access to the fire escape route, the window guard shall be removable and should only be removed for emergencies only. If the landlord does not comply, a fine of $250 will be issued to the landlord.

​

Read the bill here.