Basic Home Safety Standards
It is important to practice basic safety standards within your home to help prevent injury. Get started using this list.
Electrical Safety
- Electrical cords will not be placed beneath furniture, carpeting or rugs.
- Frayed cords will be replaced.
- Extension cords will not be overloaded. (Check rating label on cord and appliance.)
- Multiple outlet adapters should not be used in electrical outlets.
Rugs, Runners, and Mats
- Remove all area rugs, mats, and runners if possible to avoid trip hazards.
- If left in place, loose rugs, runners, and mats should be secured with double-sided adhesive or rubber matting.
- Carpet edges should be tacked down if loose.
- Torn or frayed carpeting should be repaired, replaced, or removed.
- Infractions of these standards can cause falls and injuries.
Telephone
- Locate at least one phone in an area that will be accessible if an accident leaves you unable to stand.
- Post an emergency telephone number near the phones.
Fire Safety
- Fire regulations recommend at least one smoke detector on every level of home.
- Developing an evacuation plan and practice evacuation in the event of fire. (Family members who are non-ambulatory or require assistance should be removed first.)
- Establish clear pathways to all exits. Do not block exits with furniture or boxes.
- Do not leave cooking unattended for extended periods of time.
- Chimneys should be inspected annually to avoid dangerous build up of creosote.
- Kerosene heaters, wood stoves and fireplaces should not be left unattended while in use.
Cupboards and Closets
- Cupboards should be organized so that frequently used items are on lower shelves.
- Use a sturdy stepladder to reach items on high shelves.
- Heavy items should be stored flatly on lower levels of closet to avoid falling and injury.
Bathroom
- Tub and shower should have textured surface or non-skid mats or strips to avoid falls.
- Grab bars to assist transfers should be installed in tub, shower and toilet area.
- Check water temperature with hand before entering tub or shower.
- Night-light should be used in bathroom.
Stairs, Hallways, and Passageways
- Loose rugs, runner, and mats should be secured with double-sided adhesive or rubber matting.
- Carpet edges should be tack down.
- Torn or frayed carpeting should be repaired, replaced, or removed.
- Keep a clear path for mobilization.
- Wires and cords must be kept out of walking area.
Basement
- Use correct size fuses at all times.
- Gasoline, paints, solvents and such products should be stored in covered containers away from furnace, heater, water heater, ranges and other appliances.
- Spills should be cleaned promptly.
- Old newspapers and cleaning clothes should not be stockpiled.
Outdoors
- Entranceways should be clear of leaves, snow and ice.
- Sidewalks should be even and intact. (remove loose stones or gravel.)