General Home Safety Tips


Be prepared

  • Have telephones in easy reach of both your bed and the place you sit most often
  • Place emergency phone numbers on or near every phone in your home
  • Buy a first-aid kit. Keep one in both your home and your car

Avoid Fires

  • Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms throughout the house. Test them periodically to make sure they work. Batteries should be changed at least once a year
  • Place fire extinguishers in the kitchen and other rooms. Make sure you know how to use them
  • Never smoke in bed
  • Turn off appliances when they are not in use
  • Run electrical cords along walls, not under rugs
  • Don’t overload outlets and extension cords
  • Never store flammable liquids such as cleaning agents and paint supplies near heating units
  • Keep space heaters a safe distance from combustibles. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines
  • Have more than one escape route from your home. Practice these routes with your family

A Recipe for Careful Cooking

  • Keep flammable objects such as curtains, aprons and dishtowels away from stoves
  • Never wear loose clothing near a stovetop while cooking
  • Never leave cooking unattended. Don’t cook if you are drowsy
  • Heat oil slowly. Heating oil too quickly can easily start a fire
  • If a pan catches fire, carefully place a lid over the pan and turn off the heat. Leave the lid on until completely cool
  • Always clean appliances and surfaces after cooking to prevent grease buildup
  • Make sure handles on cookware are secure and always turned toward the center of the stove when cooking
  • Use a step stool instead of a chair to climb to a high shelf

Avoid bumps, burns, bruises and falls

  • Make sure staircases are well lit and have convenient switches and night-lights at the top and bottom
  • Securely fasten all carpeting and make sure all throw rugs or area rugs have non-skid backing
  • Install rubber mats or safety decals in bathtubs and showers
  • Close cabinet doors and drawers when they are not in use
  • Keep staircases and hallways free of clutter
  • Never go up and down stairs carrying things that could block your vision or put you off balance

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