Preventing Accidents At Home

They say that most accidents happen at home. It doesn't take much to have an accident that can cause minor or major health problems for you and/or your family, friends, and guests. In addition, it can cause you financial difficulties. You can avoid many mishaps just by taking simple precautions.

Ladders can truly be dangerous and account for many home accidents.

• Routinely check your ladders for worn steps, loose parts, or other problems before using.
• Climb up and down slowly when using a ladder and watch for "missed" steps.
• Don't climb above the labeled "maximum height."
• When on a ladder, watch your balance to avoid falls and injuries.
• Always use a wood or fiberglass ladder for any electrical work.
• When finished, fold and store ladders properly.

• Use area rugs properly so that they do not create tripping hazards.
• Regularly pick up toys, debris, shoes, and more in walkways throughout your home.
• Use tools or appliances carefully around water to avoid electrical shocks.
• Put extension cords away after use to avoid unnecessary tripping.
• Use tools properly, consulting the manual if necessary, to avoid injuries and mishaps.

Eliminate and/or reduce fire hazards. Fire can be devastating and often easy to avoid.

• When cooking, turn off the stove if you are not in the kitchen or leaving home.
• Clean up grease immediately to avoid fire.
• Do not leave an appliance running when you leave home.
• Clean out lint from dryers to avoid an unnecessary fire.
• Replace or dispose of any frayed electrical cord.
• Blow out burning candles when leaving the room or your home. Tip - now you can purchase battery operated LED candles that simulate burning candles, without the hazard of fire while running. Many have built-in timers so you can program them and save battery time.
• If you have a fireplace, never put warm ashes in a trash can or place a receptacle of ashes near the home. Make sure they completely cool prior to disposing of them.
• Never put the trash can in the garage in case there is anything that could be combustible and keep away from the home.

Safety outside of the home.

• Lock your car. If you do not park in a garage, always lock your car when parked outside. Don't leave your car keys in the ignition and the windows closed.
• Lock your garage door for safety. If you do have a garage, keep the garage door down when not in the garage and locked at all times.
• Keep your house entry door locked at all times to keep out unwanted visitors.
• Keep walkways and driveways clear of debris to avoid hazardous falls or slips.
• Wear sturdy shoes and long pants when using a mower, edger, or blower.

Take two extra precautions that can make a difference.

• Remember to review your first aid kit. This should only take minutes and if you do have an accident, it can be of great benefit. If you don't have one, put one together as soon as possible.
• Check your smoke alarm/detector monthly to ensure it is working properly. If it is not, report it to your property management company immediately. This can mean the difference between life and death.

We hope these tips prove useful to you regarding safety in your home. You will probably think of more. Have a safe and wonderful New Year.