Community Heroes Series
From the May 2006 issue of Alabama Living magazine

Article by Kay Marshall

HOME SAFETY TIPS

Ah, spring. The flowers come up. The leaves come out. And, the sun shines brightly into your home – highlighting the fact that it’s time for some spring cleaning!While you’re ridding the house of winter’s dust and grime, it’s also a good time to take a fresh look at something else your home may be in need of – a thorough safety checkup.

Why check up on your home’s safety? If you are like most Americans, your home is where you already feel the safest. However, every year unintentional home injuries occur, sending millions of people to the hospital. In fact, approximately 10 million home injuries were seen in U.S. emergency rooms annually between 1993 and 2000, according to the Home Safety Council. Checking your home for safety hazards now is the best way to ensure you and your family will remain out of harm’s way throughout the year.

Fires/Burns

Smoke detectors should be located on every level of your home, and in or near all bedrooms. First, test all batteries in the alarms and make sure that they are in working order. Next, if you don’t already have a fire drill plan in place, create one and be sure to practice it at least twice a year. The plan should identify at least two exits out of every room and a designated area for family members to meet outside. Finally, if you have small children, use safety covers on all electrical outlets, keep your water heater setting at 120 F or less, and consider installing anti-scald devices in faucets to avoid potential burn zones.

Slips/Falls

In recent years, falls in or near the home accounted for nearly 16,000 deaths. All age groups are vulnerable, but older adults are most at risk. In fact, 80 percent of those fatally injured are over age 65, according to the National Safety Council. “In order to help prevent slips and falls in the home, make sure living areas are well lit,” suggests Meri-K Appy, president of the Home Safety Council. “Keep floors clear by reducing clutter and safely tucking telephone and electrical cords out of walkways. Also, don’t wax floors. Use non-skid throw rugs to reduce chances of slipping on slick vinyl or hardwood surfaces. Finally, installing handrails in stairways, as well as grab bars in the bathroom, are wise ideas.”

More than 400 people a day go to hospital emergency rooms because of falls in the bathtub alone. To reduce the risk of slipping, add tread strips to your tub or shower floor.
Also consider investing in a tub grip or grab bar for support. Tub grips can provide added balance when entering or exiting the tub.

While adding yet another item to your list of things to do this spring may seem overwhelming, it is simple to start with one room/area and work from there.
By following these recommendations, you’ll take comfort in knowing that you have a safe, clean and organized home that everyone can enjoy throughout the year!

Kay Marshall is the Internet Projects Coordinator and Editor for TEC

Home Safety Tips

Safety Around Power Lines

Keeping Baby Safe At Home

Seasoned Citizen Section

Recipes

TEC Woman

Local Hero Series