“The ACCC and state and territory consumer regulators are working together to raise awareness of the potential hazard loose curtain and blind cords pose,” ACCC deputy chairman, Peter Kell, announced today.

Loose curtain and blind cords become a hazard for children as they may play with them, become tangled and be unable to release themselves to prevent choking.

“It is alarming that 15 tragedies relating to blind and curtain cords have taken place in Australia since the early 1990s – sadly some have been as recent as August and October this year.

“Our message is simple: loose blind and curtain cords can kill. Fix them out of reach, so kids are out of danger,” Mr Kell said. “We are urging curtain and blind suppliers, landlords, housing providers and community groups to assist in raising awareness about this important issue.

“I am pleased to see that some of these organisations and community groups have already agreed to support this campaign.”

Mr Kell strongly advised all Australians to follow four key steps to ensure that blind and curtain cords do not pose a threat to children:

1. Check that your blind and curtain cords are out of reach of children, even when you’re away on holidays.
2. Secure loose cords out of reach by using cleats or tensioning devices from a hardware or curtain and blind shop.
3. Choose safe blinds and curtains by making sure that new curtains and blinds have warning labels and provide a way to secure cords/chains out of reach.
4. Keep children away from all cords and chains.

More information is available at www.accc.gov.au/blindandcurtainsafety

Double curtain rods have scrolls on each end to hold the two adjustable rods, making it easy to create a pretty, decorative window display. Another nice feature is that they are designed in such a manner that they have no problem fitting any place, just like any other curtain rods.

Double Curtain Rods hold two adjustable rods, one slightly behind the other allowing for a dimensional effect. Normally the inner curtain is a thin, light fabric, and the outer curtain is thicker and patterned.

They offer a great solution for layered looks such as valances and shears or drapes and shears. This is also great for adding depth and texture for your window treatment creation.

Decorative Curtain Rods not only layers and texture to a window, they also add functionality. By using sheers or opaque curtains underneath the heavier silk or velvet curtain, you have the option to allow light flood the room while still maintaining your privacy.

Depending on your budget, Double and Decorative Curtain Rods can be a great budget buster.

What can go wrong?

As the cords get tighter with age we tend to want to push the curtains by hand. This causes the tension in the cord to slacken and fall out of its groove. It can then get caught on things like hooks and gliders and once this has happened it can be almost impossible to move with the cord.

A master runner is the part that pulls the curtain to the center or end of the track. these can break very easily as the main part holding them into place is plastic and can become brittle over time. this can be replaced.

An end pulley is where the cord runs through to enable you to pull the cord with ease. This can wear with time and is replacable. it may cause your cord to fray when worn. It is recomened the cord be relaced at the same time.

Cam locks are the most common part that holds the rod/track up that breaks.

They are joined to the bracket that is on the wall and attach to the top of the curtain track/rod. Most of these parts are still available through Dr Drapes