Every year, emergency rooms treat thousands of people who thought they were safe in their homes. It takes minimal effort and often includes little to no cost to eliminate safety hazards in the home.
Falls
Falls are one of the top three types of home injuries. To prevent falls, make sure all steps, stairs, and decks have railings, both inside and out. Work with a reputable company like Stair Case and Railing Store to ensure proper installation. Never allow children to play or leave items around stairs, or steps, and teach them to pick up toys and other tripping hazards as they are seen around the home. Falls frequently occur in bathrooms. Install safety handles and non-slip surfaces to bathtubs and showers. Make sure handles are rated for the weight capacity of individuals who will be using them and are properly anchored to the wall.
Fires
Fires are destructive and deadly. Even a small fire can cause significant smoke, or water damage. Install smoke alarms on every level of the home and near each bedroom to make sure they are heard in case of a fire. Routinely check outlets to see that they are working properly. Outlets should never get hot, or have exposed wiring. If these signs are noticed, stop using the outlet immediately and call a professional. Also, periodically check appliance cords for frays or other damage. Replace them as soon as you spot a problem. Teach everyone in the house an emergency evacuation plan, and practice it often. Also, purchase a small fire extinguisher to stop fires before they grow to an unmanageable size.
Chocking and Poisoning
In homes with small children or pets, chocking and poisoning are some of the biggest concerns. Items that are small enough to fit through a paper towel tube should be thrown away or put up where the child cannot reach them. Teach children to sit when eating from a young age, and avoid hard food items such as nuts and hard candies. All chemicals should be stored in a hard to reach location, and if possible, locked in a cabinet. This includes cleaners, laundry detergent, dish soap, pesticides, and paint. Research any household plants to make sure they are not harmful if ingested. Post the number to the poison control hotline on the fridge or other visible area. Teach children not to put nonfood items in their mouth.
Household safety is the responsibility of every member of the house and should be taken seriously.
