Vehicle power windows can strangle kids

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WASHINGTON, N.J., Aug. 18 (UPI) -- Federal regulations requiring a new type of switch for power windows in vehicles are intended to prevent death and injury to children, U.S. officials said.

Officials at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said all new vehicles will have "pull to close" switches that must be pulled up to close a window. Older vehicles may have window switches that a child can accidentally step or put weight on, easily causing a window to close.

"Some vehicles have power windows that automatically reverse when an object -- such as your child's arm or neck -- is in the path of a closing window," the officials said in a statement. "Check both the individual vehicle rating pages on www.safercar.gov and your owner's manual to see if a vehicle is equipped with this safety technology."

To prevent child injuries from power windows, the NHTSA recommends to:

-- Never leave your children alone in a vehicle for any reason.

-- Teach your children not to play with window switches.

-- Teach your children not to stand on passenger door arm rests.

-- Properly restrain your children in car seats or seat belts to prevent them from accidentally activating power windows and sunroofs.

-- Look and make sure your kids' hands, feet, and head are clear of windows before raising the windows.

-- Never leave the key in the ignition or in the "on" or "accessory" position when you walk away from your car.

-- If available, activate the power window lock switch so children cannot play with the windows.