Slips and falls are among the leading causes of home injuries, especially among seniors and children. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls account for more than 8 million emergency room visits yearly. That’s why you must take steps to safeguard your home from slips and falls. In this blog post, we will cover how to use proper lighting, secure rugs with non-slip backing, ensure floors remain dry at all times, use stair railings correctly to prevent falls on stairs, set up a clutter-free environment around your house, which is crucial so no items can be stepped on or tripped over; last but not least using slip-resistant mats outside the entrance door helps trap snow & mud before entering your home during snowy winters season!
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Identify Areas of Risk
Identifying areas in your home where slips and falls are more likely to occur is an essential step in creating a safe environment. Start with the floor – examine tiles, carpets, and wooden planks for any surface irregularities that could cause someone to trip. Also, look out for slick wet spots, loose rugs, mats, or other objects that could be easily stepped on and increase the risk of a fall. Next, as you move up throughout your home, pay attention to any stairs or steps – check them for signs of wear, see if their edges are visible at night, and ensure railings along each side provide adequate support. Finally, scan your living areas for any objects that could easily be tripped over – keep cords tucked away and rearrange furniture if needed. You can reduce the risk of slips and falls by identifying these potential hazards.
Invest in Non-Slip Mats and Rugs
It is important to ensure your home is safe from slips and falls. One way to reduce the risk of falling due to slippery surfaces is by investing in non-slip mats and rugs. Placing these items in areas where slipping is more likely can prevent painful injuries or worse. Non-slip mats and rugs come in various sizes, shapes, textures, and colors, making it easy to find something that fits your decorating needs. Place them around sinks, bathtubs, showers, and other places with the potential for slippery surfaces. Remember that kids, seniors, and people with physical disabilities are particularly at risk and often need special attention when it comes to securing a safe environment from slips and falls, so yet another layer of precaution needs to be taken if you have such family members or visitors in your home often.
Check Stairs for Wear
Keeping your stairs in good condition is one important way to prevent slips and falls. Taking the time to inspect them each month can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience or a significant health issue for those who live and visit your home. In addition, the steps should be regularly checked for chipped paint, slippery surfaces, or even warped wood that could cause someone to stumble. To make additional repairs, black key clamp fittings can provide extra stability. Combined with a complete set of anchoring brackets along both sides, these will increase the stairs’ safety and enhance their overall look. Regular checkups and repair work can ensure that you, your family, and all guests are safe when navigating each step.
Secure Loose Cords
As a first line of defense, securing all loose cords to prevent slips and falls at home is essential. Any cords hanging off shelves or other surfaces should be tucked neatly away and not left dangling. Loose cords on the floor present a clear trip hazard, so all cords should be handled with extra care. You may need to purchase cable clips or other hardware that can keep a cord in place and away from foot traffic. Remember to leave enough slack in the cord so that you can still move furniture or adjust the location of an item without detaching the cord completely. It is also worth considering using wireless devices for added safety and convenience. Taking the time to ensure all cords are secured will provide peace of mind knowing your family members are less likely to trip over them.
Slips and falls can be severe issues in the home. Taking proactive steps to secure your home by investing in non-slip mats & rugs, improving lighting, checking stairs for wear, and securing loose cords will make a world of difference when it comes to avoiding these accidents. With some basic knowledge and care, you can keep your family, friends, and all visitors safe from slips and falls.