Windows are extremely important parts of the household, especially when it comes to keeping outside threats such as strong winds, dust, and even sunlight in check. Maintaining windows are important, but sometimes constant wear and tear can make a home window break unexpectedly. This may seem typical given the circumstances, but it can pose dangers to your life when not treated carefully.
In order to understand the threat of broken glass, even from windows, it might be helpful to look at it from the perspective of other people that have to deal with glassware. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, even workplaces themselves contain risk of injury when it comes to the disposal, handling, and storage of broken glass and glassware. This is because it can cause puncture wounds, cuts, and lacerations that, when not careful, can cause exposure to disease, eye injuries, amputations, and severed tendons and arteries. As such, a home window suddenly breaking isn’t something to be taken lightly. Here are measures you should take:
- Are you sure it’s not a break-in? While natural wear and tear can break your home window, try to make sure your home is safe from a break-in as well. Grab something to protect yourself and your family with, and make sure everyone is in a safe place. If you suspect this might be a break-in, contact your police immediately.
- Natural causes? If the window has been broken because of an accident or as an act of nature, do file an insurance claim so you don’t have to cover for the costs of replacing the window. This is of course if your insurance specifically covers this type of situation.
- Make sure you at least wear protective gloves or wrap your arms and hands with extremely thick cloth and clothing in order for you to be able to gather the broken glass together. Afterwards, make sure you secure the opening of the window not just to keep intruders away from your home, but to make sure energy efficiency around the household is maintained.
- Don’t dispose of the glass, even if you’re able to get them in a single piece. Disposing of glass carelessly not only can harm you, but others as well. If possible, try getting in touch with a professional company such as Scelta Windows that might be able to aid you in this predicament. They may also be able to fix you up with a replacement window that is appropriate for your household needs.
- Try consulting a professional as to the status of your other windows as well. This is most especially the case if the window in question has been built alongside the other windows of your house. If they seem to be in a state of disrepair, it might be a good idea to have them replaced immediately as well in order to avoid more windows being broken inside the home.
The Takeaway:
Remember that while a home window can appear as something easy to deal with, you’re still going to involve yourself with sharp objects. As such, it’s advisable you take extra precaution when dealing with sharp objects and, as stated above, perhaps even ask the assistance of a professional company should there be more glass than usual for you to handle. Safety comes first, and much more so with sharp glass.
Joe Minardi
Owner/President
I am the owner and founder of Scelta Windows based out of Tulsa, Oklahoma. I have over 20 plus years of experience, specifically in the residential remodeling and replacement window sales and installation. I launched Scelta Windows to provide choices to customers, along with a commitment to superb customer service. Many Oklahoma residents may remember me from my days co-hosting a home improvement show on KRMG Radio, with Denver Fox. For over 10 years, I enjoyed providing tips to listeners. I have also been featured on many national and local publications and websites with articles and tips related to home improvement and windows.