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Dr Gérald Kierzek (Medical Director of Doctissimo)
While his parents are at the bottom of the building, a 4-year-old child wants to join them and jumps out of the window! He comes out of it miraculously. But this avoided tragedy reminds us that defenestration accidents are not rare. Prevention advice from Dr Gérald Kierzek.
More fear than harm. This is the conclusion of the accident which occurred at the bottom of a building in Creil, at the beginning of the week.
A fall from the third floor
After going shopping, a couple and their 4-year-old child were unloading the car. But in the apartment, the child finds himself alone after the front door slammed. The parents, noticing that the child was locked inside, immediately called the firefighters.
In panic, the child wanted to join his parents who remained outside. He then has the idea of jumping out of the window! Fortunately, he fell into the bushes and his fall was cushioned. The child was transported to hospital and his life is not in danger.
Beware of defenestration accidents!
Dr Gérald Kierzek, emergency doctor and medical director of Doctissimo, recalls the prevention advice to avoid this type of accident. “Defenestrations are accidents which occur particularly in spring and summerwhen we leave the windows open” explains the emergency doctor.
“Parents must be reminded of the importance of installing safety devices on windows, but also of not having a bench or chair in front. And above all, never leave a child alone without supervision.” he insists.
Once the child is old enough to understand, it is also important to emphasize safety instructions at home. “We must make children understand the dangers of windows, and the risk of leaning forward from the balcony too.” notes Gérald Kierzek.
Accidents that do not spare the oldest
Advice that applies to adults. “Accidents of this type, with adolescents under the influence of alcohol, can also happen” he adds, “just like with adults who try to climb the neighbor’s balcony because the door slammed with the key on the lock. These are all falls that can be avoided.”
And when faced with such accidents, you must immediately notify the firefighters or emergency services.