Abu Dhabi: In a bid to safeguard children, Abu Dhabi Police have launched a comprehensive awareness campaign aimed at educating parents on the dangers of child falls from windows and balconies, a risk that typically escalates during the winter months.
The initiative is being promoted through the police’s website and social media platforms to reach a broad audience.
The campaign urges Abu Dhabi residents to adopt safety measures to prevent tragic accidents, such as falls from home balconies. It emphasises the importance of closely supervising children, keeping them away from windows, and removing any furniture or objects that may allow them to climb balcony walls, reducing the risk of accidents.
Abu Dhabi Police stressed that protecting children from life-threatening accidents is a shared responsibility, with parents playing the most vital role. A moment of negligence could lead to irreversible consequences.
This initiative is part of a larger safety program titled “Our Winter is Safe and Enjoyable.”
Safety campaigns
The UAE has previously launched similar safety campaigns during the winter months, urging families to take precautions to prevent falls from heights. Authorities recommend installing protective devices, such as window guards, and ensuring large furniture or toys are kept away from windows and balconies to prevent children from climbing.
Parents are also advised to avoid allowing children to engage in playful activities near windows or balconies or lean over railings, as these actions increase the risk of falls.
Tragic incidents
Several tragic incidents underscore the need for heightened vigilance. In March 2023, a four-year-old girl tragically died after falling from the 20th floor of a residential building in Sharjah.
Later that year, a 17-year-old boy in Ajman and a 12-year-old girl in Dubai also lost their lives in similar accidents. Over the past decade, more than 30 children in the UAE have died from falls from windows or balconies.
Authorities have also shared near-miss stories, such as the rescue of a five-year-old boy who was found hanging from the edge of a high-rise building while searching for his mother.
Strengthening building safety regulations
In response to these tragedies, Sharjah Municipality introduced stricter building safety regulations in 2017. These include raising the minimum height of balcony railings to 120cm (from the previous 100cm) and requiring the installation of safety locks on windows to restrict their opening to just 5—10cm. Additionally, railings must be designed to prevent children from climbing.
Practical tips
Install protective measures on windows and staircase entrances
Keep doors leading to balconies and rooftops securely closed
Ensure floors, especially in bathrooms, are dry and use non-slip mats
Install fall-prevention tools such as handrails and night lights
Ensure children wear protective helmets while cycling or engaging in outdoor activities
Always use car seats, seat belts, and safe strollers when travelling
Teach children safe play practices and the importance of caution
Top priority
Authorities emphasised that while the cooler months encourage families to open windows and enjoy their balconies, child safety must remain the top priority. By taking proactive measures and maintaining vigilance, parents can help create safer environments for their children to grow and thrive
