Summertime is a key time for family getaways. Whether for the whole summer or just for a weekend, spending time away from home can provide unforgettable memories. When settling into your temporary living space, whether it’s a summer home, hotel or rental, dangers exists that parents need to be aware of. The Window Covering Safety Council (WCSC) wants to remind parents that children are especially vulnerable when traveling and are offering life saving tips to keep children safe.

Be aware that window covering cords can potentially pose a strangulation hazard to infants and young children. Check your vacation rental and secure any dangling or loose cords so they are not accessible. Then, follow these steps:

-  Move all furniture, cribs, chairs, beds and climbable items away from windows.
-  Be sure rental cribs are in good repair and meet current safety requirements.
-  Inspect the house for and dispose of medications that may have been left by the previous occupants.
-  Secure household chemicals in cabinets with child locks.
-  If you have a balcony, make sure all openings are properly sealed with netting, gates, or wood.
-  Whenever possible, open windows from the top – instead of the bottom.
-  Make sure that tasseled pull cords are as short as possible.
-  Check that cord stops are properly installed and adjusted to limit the movement of inner lift cords.