Staying safe around the home

The old expression ‘home is where the heart is’ is well and good, just so long as you watch your step!

Injuries in and around the home are the biggest cause of ACC claims –accounting for over 40 percent of all new claims received in 2011.

What may surprise many is the risk associated with seemingly benign objects, such as rugs and power cords, which can cause a fall-related injury at any time of the year.

It’s not just older and younger people who fall at home – over 40 percent of all home falls happened to people aged 25-64 years.

An injury can completely change your life for a while. It can stop you from doing the things you enjoy, like catching up with friends or playing with your children.

People often need to take time off work too, affecting their income. ACC figures show 10,000 people are off work for a week or more because of a fall at home.

The good news is there are some simple things you can do around the home to greatly reduce the risk of you or someone in your family having a fall.

Remove moss

• Waterblast, scrub or spray mossy areas with moss removal products

• Cut trees and shrubs back to prevent shade – conditions which moss thrives in

• Build new decks with grooved timber.

Secure power cords

• Get cords out of harm’s way, with cord clips, quick-release power cords or multi-boxes

• Secure loose cords or wires to the wall.

Fasten rugs and mats

• Secure them with anti-slip tape, or spray on a non-slip coating

• Use carpet grips for mats

• Repair damaged carpet on stairs

• If you’re buying a new rug, look for one with a non-slip backing. Avoid using chairs as ladders

• Use a ladder or step ladder to reach high objects

• Store heavy, regularly used objects down lower

• Use long-life smoke alarms and light bulbs so you don’t have to change them often.

Wipe up spills

• Wipe up spills as soon as they happen, with mops, sponges or cloths

• Use floor mats to absorb excess water

• If renovating, install non-slip flooring in wet rooms (bathroom, kitchen and laundry).

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