Being “at home” should mean being relaxed, but we also need to be vigilant, because most accidents happen in or near the home. To help ensure your home is truly a safe haven, review this list of safety tips and see what may need your attention:
• Make sure you have at least one functional fire extinguisher, ideally near the kitchen.
• Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly. Replace batteries as recommended.
• If your home has outdated household wiring, replace it.
• Protect children and seniors by properly storing toxic, combustible, or otherwise harmful materials such as solvents, disinfectants, chemicals, medications, etc.
• Slick, smooth stairs should have carpeting or treads, and loose carpets and mats throughout the home should be secured or removed, especially if at the top of a staircase.
• If you don’t already have one, install a home security system. These systems go hand-in-hand with safety, because a good system can protect people as well as possessions.
• Don’t overlook the importance of replacing inadequate locks – they can be easily breached by burglars.
