Home Safety-Falls Safety Hazards Around the House

Creating a safe environment where your family can grow and thrive is a top priority. Thankfully, though a number of serious safety hazards lurk around the average home, most of these concerns can be addressed pretty easily.
Make sure you’re doing everything you can to keep your family safe. Consult this guide of nine common safety hazards in the home for quick, simple solutions to keep you and your loved ones out of harm’s way.

1. Falls

Injuries due to falls are one of the most common household hazards. In fact, one out of five older adults who falls incurs a broken bone or a head injury. Wet floors, slippery stairs, and scattered toys all create the potential for falls.
Ways to minimize risks:

• Stabilize Staircases

Make sure all staircases have solid handrails, securely affixed flooring, adequate lighting, and safety gates if there are small children in the home. The Regalo Easy Step Walk Thru Gate is adjustable to most spaces and easy to use, even with a baby in your arms.

• Clear Outdoor Steps

Keep all outside stairs clear of debris and hazards like ice and snow. Add secured mats or grip tape to make surfaces less slippery.

• Secure Bathrooms

Secure rugs to avoid slipping and water pooling on slick surfaces. Non-slip stickers are another good way to keep everyone in your home from slipping in the shower.

• Corral Toys

Provide an easy space for kids to stow toys and make sure every playdate ends without injury. Secure skateboards, bikes, and other mobile toys in a safe area where family members and visitors won’t trip on them.

• Install Supports

Install safety rails like the Medline Bathtub Bar to help family members old and young safely get in and out of the shower. Or use these Balance Assist Bars, which are small enough to fit in any shower, and more than one can be added to provide extra support to older family members and others who need additional help.