General Home Safety

  • Consider a medical alert or a buddy system.
  • Keep a fire extinguisher and smoke detector on every floor.
  • Use extreme caution when smoking. Never smoke when alone or in bed.
  • Always get up slowly after sitting or lying down. Take your time, and make sure your have your balance.
  • Wear proper fitting shoes with low heels.
  • Remove or tack down all scatter rugs.
  • Remove electrical or telephone cords from traffic areas.
  • Avoid using slippery wax on floors.
  • Wipe up spills promptly.
  • Avoid standing on ladders or chairs.
  • Have sturdy rails for all stairs inside and outside the house, or, if necessary, purchase a stair lift.
  • Check for sturdiness of furniture and equipment frequently used.
  • Keep telephone and emergency numbers within reach, especially when alone.
  • Keep cane/walker within reach. DO NOT attempt to walk alone if you balance is not steady.
  • If using a wheelchair, be sure the brakes are locked on BOTH sides before transferring to and from the wheelchair.

Bathroom Safety

  • Leave a light on in your bathroom at night.
  • Use recommended bath aids, securely installed on the walls of the bath/shower stall and on the sides of the toilet.
  • Skid-proof the tub and make sure the bath mat has a non-slip bottom.
  • Mark cold and hot faucets clearly.
  • Use door locks that can be opened from both sides.
  • If possible, shower only when help is available.
  • Use non- skid mat or tub chair with rubber suction cups to hold in place.

Fire safety

  • Develop and practice an evacuation plan
  • Locate smoke detectors (which should be located on each level of the home, living rooms, hallways etc.)
  • Establish clear pathways to all exits. DO NOT BLOCK EXITS with furniture or boxes. HAVE KEYS accessible near deadbolt/ locked doors.
  • Avoid smoking with oxygen, in bed or laying down.