Home Safety Tips

Making your home safe and secure is important to maintaining your ability to perform activities of daily living. Many of us are unaware of some common sense guidelines that can help ensure the general safety of your home. Here are some tips to identify safety improvements may which be needed in your home, or the home of a loved one.

General Safety

  • Emergency phone numbers are posted by each telephone.
  • Throw rugs have nonskid backing and are not used in high traffic areas.
  • Electrical appliance cords are untangled and in good condition.
  • To prevent scalding, the water heater is set to 120 degrees or lower.

Kitchen Safety

  • Cleaners and chemicals are stored out of reach of children and confused individuals.
  • Pan handles are turned to the rear or side when cooking.
  • Knives are secured in a knife rack or drawer.
  • Curtains are clear of the stove or open flame.

Bedroom Safety

  • A flashlight or lamp is kept within easy reach of your bed.
  • Night lights are used to illuminate the way to the bathroom at night.
  • A mobile phone is accessible in addition to land-line phone.
  • Quartz area lights are at least two feet from curtains.

Bathroom Safety

  • Bathtub or shower has non-skid mat or strips.
  • Grab bars are installed on walls by bathtub and toilet for seniors.
  • Towel bars and soap dish n shower are made of durable materials but are not used as grab bars.
  • Electrical appliances (radio, TV, heater, hair dryer) are kept away or are not used from/in the tub/shower area.

Fire Safety

  • Family and caregivers are familiar with emergency 911 procedures.
  • Check fire extinguishers regularly and replace as recommended by manufacturer.
  • If your fire escape route is cut off, remain calm. Close the door, seal off cracks to withhold smoke and signal for help at the window.
  • Install smoke alarms and check batteries when you change your clocks for daylight savings time in the spring and fall.

Stairways/ Hall Safety

  • Stairs have non-skid strips or carpeting which is securely fastened and free of holes or fraying.
  • Doors do not swing out over steps.
  • Hallways are equipped with nightlights.
  • A smoke detector is installed in hallway.

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