Epidemiological surveillance of accidental child falls from windows: surveys from 2005, 2006, and 2013

Objectives: The Défenestrations surveys aim to describe the number, circumstances, severity, and trends of accidental falls from heights involving children. Subject, materials, and methods: Following an initial survey in 2005, two surveys were conducted from March 15 to October 15, 2006, and 2013, in three regions (IdF, NPdC, PACA), covering all accidental falls of 3 meters or more involving children under 15 years of age. Key findings: During the 7-month period of the 2013 study, 76 falls were recorded (incidence rate 1.9/100,000). The victims were primarily children under 6 years of age (62%), mostly boys (70%). In 82% of the falls, an adult was present, and furniture was located beneath the window opening in half of the cases. Nine children died (12%), and 8 suffered lasting effects. A comparison of the three surveys shows little difference in the characteristics of the accidents. However, the number of cases has decreased in Île-de-France (64 in 2006, 51 in 2013). Conclusions: The characteristics of these accidents are consistent with the international literature. The prevention measures initiated in France in 2006 should be continued: recommendations for adult supervision of children, no furniture placed under windows, and appropriate window opening systems. (R.A.)

Author(s): Pasquereau A, Meyer P, Thelot B

Publishing year: 2014

Pages: p.705

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