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.)