HOME SAFETY TIPS A COMPREHENSIVE RESOURCE

In the kitchen,

• Keep a distance between flammable objects (papers, curtains, plastics, etc.) and fire sources (oven, stove top, portable heater, etc.)
• Use harmful products (cleaning solutions, lighters) with caution (follow instructions!) and keep them out of reach of children and pets.
• Never leave sharp objects (knives) or other such tools and utensils misplaced or unattended.
• Ensure electrical cords aren’t draped across other appliances or the counter or stove top.
• Leave space around appliances for proper ventilation.

In the bathroom,

• Keep electrical appliances wrapped and away from water.
• Use non-slip strips or floor mats
• Always keep the room clean and as dry as possible.

In the bedroom,

• Never smoke.
• As always, ensure that everything else is a safe distance away from a source of fire or heat.
• Opt for mattresses with open flame-resistant protection.
• You’re most vulnerable when you sleep. Even in bed, keep a phone, light, (and, if necessary, a weapon) within reach.

In the garage,

• This is probably where you store most of your tools and equipment. Take precautions with flammable liquids, chemicals, and anything producing fumes.
• Keep poisonous substances (paint thinner, antifreeze, rat poison, etc.) locked up and out of reach of children and pets.
• Keep your space clean and organized, especially as many of your tools are sharp, heavy, or otherwise dangerous.

In the yard,

• Surround your property with a sturdy fence (this is more for keeping in children and pets, but can also serve to remind strangers to keep out).
• If you’ve got a pool, keep it locked down or fenced in when not in use.
• Be careful when working in bad weather. Use sand, salt, and good-traction footware on ice and snow.

On the stairs,

• Keep steps clean and dry.
• Always install stable and sturdy railing on both sides of the stairs.
  1. Ensure that the distance between the rails is narrow enough to prevent a child or infant from falling through.
     1. Good rule of thumb: less than four inches!
• Keep stairs well lit.

Guard against fire with these home safety tips:

• Install smoke detectors, check them regularly, and replace the batteries at least once a year.
• Avoid overloading outlets and extension cords.
• Keep fire extinguishers handy and know how to use them.
• Establish a safety exit, ensure all family members know and understand it, practice with drills, and ensure it’s never blocked.
• Never block or pile things on heaters or near heat-exuding appliances; give these a wide berth, plenty of breathing room, and make sure they don’t get overheated.
• Ensure that all materials are fire-resistant if you’re renovating or just fixing up something around the house.
• Never leave any type of fire or hot appliance unattended.
• Remove dry vegetation around your home, especially during the dry seasons.
• Cover the fireplace with a stable and large metal fire frame.

Have easy access to important phone numbers: the police, the fire department, poison control, and trusted family, friends, and neighbors, in case of an emergency.

Clearly mark your street number on the mailbox, fence, gate, or wall so you can easily be located in case of an emergency. Consider investing on a home safety orientation training if you're working in the home care industry.