How To Prevent Accidents In The Home

Every year, thousands of people are injured in their own homes.  In fact, you’re more likely to suffer an injury in your own home than anywhere else. This can include slips and falls, DIY related injuries, burns, or scolds.  In 2018 alone, there were 125,300 preventable deaths related to injury in the home (Source: Injury Facts)

Accidents do happen and you can’t anticipate everything, but there are some things you can do around your home to reduce your risks and make your home safer. 

Get ready for winter

When the weather turns cold, it adds an extra dimension of risk.  When it rains or snows, your paths and hallways can become slippery.  Plan your snow removal during the winter months and install non-slip mats next to all the doors into your property.  

Childproof  your property

Kids lend a whole new level of safety issues to your life.  They are inquisitive, unsteady on their feet, and like to climb on things. Some of the basics you need to cover are:

• Install safety gates at the top and bottom of your stairs and any room you want to keep your children in or out of. 
• Prevent doors from slamming on children’s fingers by using door stops 
• Fit safety mechanisms on all windows that will prevent them from opening fully and children falling out.  Choose the type that lets you open them fully in an emergency. 
• Add childproof locks to drawers and cupboards, especially if they contain cleaning products or dangerous items.
• Secure your furniture to walls to prevent children from pulling it down onto themselves. 

Make it safe for seniors 

As we get older, we become more prone to accidents.  In addition to the other measures you have taken, you can also make it safer for elderly parents and relatives by installing handrails in the bathroom or next to any area that they might need some support. 

Use DIY equipment safely

Every day, people end up in the Emergency Room when a bit of home improvement goes awry.  It’s usually best to hire professionals to help you out, but if you are doing things yourself, use the proper safety equipment.  

If you are working at a height up a ladder or on a stepping stool, make sure it is secure and that you have placed correctly. 

Keep a fire extinguisher on hand to put out any small fires before they become big ones. 

Prevent slips and falls

Falling in your own home is quite common, especially in older people.  Assess your home for areas that could be a potential fall hazard.  Secure any loose carpets or rugs down, install safety mats by doorways and if you’re redecorating, choose the flooring that’s suitable for the area and has some grip. 

Hallways should be kept free of clutter and other items you could possibly catch as you’re walking. 

Final thoughts

Though you can’t prevent every accident from happening, there are a lot of things you can do to reduce your risk of serious injury around the hoe.  Most of these are relatively simple and cheap to do.  You can do most of these yourself, but if you’re not confident with DIY, it’s best to call in the professionals to do it for you. 

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