Tips for a Safer Home (Part 2 of 3)

We all want to feel safe and comfortable in our homes. To avoid slips and falls, costly damages and other unnecessary expenses, here are a few tips for a safer home (at little or no cost to you):

No Cost:

• Place exposed electrical, telephone, and computer cords along a wall where they can’t be tripped over, check for any frayed cords, and never put cords under furniture or carpeting.
• Place heavily used items in an accessible place.
• Arrange furniture to allow for easy passage and place your favorite chair away from an exterior wall or window so you aren’t sitting in a draft.
• Remove clutter and check carpeting on stairs to be sure it is firmly attached to help prevent a fall.
• Set the hot water heater to 120 degrees to prevent scalding while bathing and reduce energy costs.
• Trim overgrown shrubbery to provide a clear view from doors and windows.

Low Cost:

• Replace traditional toggle light switches with easy-to-use rocker-style light switches.  Consider illuminated ones in bedrooms, bathrooms, and other areas of nighttime activity.
• Place or mount an A-B-C rated all-purpose fire extinguisher in an easily accessible location near the stove so you are prepared for any type of kitchen fire. Check the expiration date and pressure gauge (if the needle is in the green area, it should be functional) to ensure it is reliable.
• Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on all levels of the home, especially outside bedrooms. 
• Replace doorknobs with easy-to-grip lever-style door handles.
• Install user-friendly lever handle faucets on all sinks and in the shower.
• Install a handrail on both sides of indoor and outdoor staircases to stay steady on your feet.
• Replace knobs on drawers and cabinets with easy-to-grip D-shaped handles.
• Install a security peephole on exterior doors at a height right for you so you can easily identify the person wanting to enter.
• Install photosensitive porch or entryway lighting that turns on lights at nightfall and off at dawn or floodlights that switch on by motion sensors to light the way for you and to deter burglars.
• Place a bench near entrances for setting down purchases when unlocking the door and resting.

Get more information about keeping your home safe at www.aarp.org/homedesign.