There can be confusion between home safety and window safety and the priority each has over the other.  Both are important, of course.  However, proper window safety devices can co-exist with home safety. 

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For example, an upper floor window in a bedroom must serve the dual purpose of being an emergency escape route for a person trapped by fire.  It must also serve as an emergency access opening for firefighters who need to enter the room to fight the fire or rescue a trapped person.  

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Upper floor windows, particularly bedroom windows, present the greatest fall hazard for children.  How can resident safety AND child window fall prevention be balanced and meet the needs of both safety and emergency escape/access?

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The International Residential Code and the ASTM Standard F2090 both identify provisions for devices to safeguard windows and allow for emergency escape/access.  This issue is covered in detail in the "Information for Professionals" page of this web site. 

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Below are professional endorsements indicating appropriate window safety devices ARE NOT in conflict with codes and standards relative to window safety.  Please consider the statements from professionals in the field.