Inquest into the death of Toddler K
Demographics
1y, male
Date of death
2024-03-18
Finding date
2024
Cause of death
Accidental hanging (entrapment in looped window blind cord)
AI-generated summary
A 19-month-old toddler died from accidental asphyxiation after becoming entrapped in a looped window blind cord in the parents' bedroom. The child, known to be active and a climber, accessed the cord via a bedside table and mattress on the floor. The mother discovered him fully suspended, initiated CPR, and emergency services continued resuscitation without success. The blinds were non-compliant with mandatory safety standards—the cord was unsecured to walls and accessible to the child. Preventable measures included securing cords with wall cleats, positioning furniture away from windows, and considering cordless blinds. The case highlights the known danger of corded window coverings to young children and the importance of home safety awareness among parents and landlords regarding compliance with product safety standards.
AI-generated summary and tagging — may contain inaccuracies; refer to original finding for legal purposes.
Contributing factors
- Unsecured looped window blind cord accessible to child
- Non-compliance with mandatory safety standards for corded internal window coverings
- Furniture (bedside table and mattress) positioned near window enabling access to cord
- Child's developmental stage and tendency to climb
- Lack of parental awareness of blind cord hazards
- Poor installation compliance with safety regulations
Coroner's recommendations
- Public education on blind cord safety hazards for young children
- Increased compliance monitoring and enforcement of mandatory safety standards for corded internal window coverings by ACCC and retailers
- Promotion of cordless alternatives to corded blinds and curtains
- Landlord education regarding mandatory compliance with Trade Practices (Consumer Product Safety Standard - Corded Internal Window Coverings) Regulations 2010
- Parent and carer education on securing cords with wall cleats or tension devices
- Guidance to avoid placing furniture near windows where children can reach blind or curtain cords
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