Free Home Safety Checklist

Simple Things That Anyone Can Do To Reduce Injuries Around The Home

There are several major causes of falls in and around the home:

  • The use of certain medications
  • Slow reflexes
  • Poor eyesight
  • Problems with balance

Hazardous situations in the home such as:

  • Slippery Floors
  • Inadequate Lighting
  • Electrical Cords in pathways
  • Loose Rugs
  • Raised Thresholds
  • Clutter

The following fall prevention checklist is designed to help you - or a loved one - from falling in the home.

___ Have a lamp/light switch that you can easily reach in bed.

___ Use nightlights in the bedroom, bathroom and hallways.

___ Keep A flashlight handy

___ Have light switches at both ends of stairs and halls.

___ Install handrails on both sides of stairs.

___ Turn on the lights when you go into dark rooms.

___ Add grab bars in shower, tub and toilet areas.

___ Use bath mats with suction cups.

___ Use non-slip adhesive strips or mat in shower or tub

___ Consider sitting on a bench or stool in the shower

___ Consider using an elevated toilet seat.

___ Wear only non-slip, low heeled shoes or slippers that fit snugly.

___ Don't walk around the house in stocking feet.

___ Remove all extraneous clutter in house.

___ Keep telephone and electrical cords out of pathways.

___ Tack rugs and glue vinyl flooring so they lie flat.

___ Remove/replace rugs or runners that tend to slip, attach non-slip backing.

___ Make certain that carpets are firmly attached to the stairs.

___ Use helping devices such as canes or walkers when necessary.

___ Purchase a step stool with high, sturdy rails. Repair or discard wobbly step stools. Do not stand on a chair to reach things. Store frequently used objects where you can reach them easily.

___ Paint outside stairs with a mixture of sand and paint for better traction. Keep outdoor walkways clear and well-lighted.

___ Keep snow and ice cleared from entrances and sidewalks.

___ Review medications with your doctor or pharmacist. Some drugs, including over-the-counter drugs, can make you drowsy, dizzy and unsteady.

___ Watch your alcohol intake. More than two drinks per day can cause unsteadiness.

___ Have your hearing and eyesight tested. Inner ear problems can affect balance. Vision problems make it difficult to see potential hazards.

___ Exercise regularly to improve muscle flexibility and strength.

___ If you feel dizzy or lightheaded, sit down or stay seated until your head clears. Stand up slowly to avoid unsteadiness.

Other Fall Prevention Resources

Websites

Articles

Other

  • Bruno and Alice: A Love Story in Twelve Parts About Seniors and Safety: A series of twelve illustrated stories following the whimsical romance of two active seniors who, through lack of prevention, end up in awkward situations and almost miss their rendezvous with love. The stories offer insight into some of the personal preventive measures seniors can take to make their environment safer and prevent injuries.

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