Basic Home Safety Standards

I. Electrical Safety A. Cords should not be placed beneath furniture and rugs or across pathways. B. Replace frayed cords. C. Extension cords should not be overloaded. Check rating labeled on cord and appliance. D. Multiple outlet adapters should not be used on electrical outlets. E. Light bulbs must be appropriate wattage and shape.

II. Rugs, Runners, and Mats A. Loose rugs, runners, and mats should be removed or secured to floor with double- sided adhesive or rubber matting. B. Carpet edges should be tacked down. C. Torn, worn, frayed carpeting should be repaired, replaced, or removed.

III. Telephone A. Locate at least one phone where it is accessible in event an accident renders a person unable to stand. B. Emergency numbers should be posted near the phone. C. Have one landline (non-portable) phone or a cell phone in case of electric power outage.

IV. Fire Safety A. Fire regulations recommend one smoke detector on every level of the home. B. Fire Extinguisher (re-chargeable, multi-type -"C"). One on each floor - the kitchen in particular. C. Develop evacuation plan to exit the residence in event of fire. Prioritize family members who are dependent, non-ambulatory, or will require assistance. D. Establish clear pathways to all exits. DO NOT BLOCK EXITS with furniture or boxes. E. HAVE KEY accessible near deadbolt locked doors. F. DO NOT LEAVE COOKING unattended for extended periods of time. G. Chimneys should be inspected annually to avoid dangerous build up of creosote. H. Kerosene heaters, wood stoves, fireplaces SHOULD NOT be left unattended while in use. I. For safety, set up rules related to smoking in your home.

V. Cupboards and Closets A. Cupboards should be organized so that frequently used items are on lower/easier to reach shelves. B. A sturdy step stool should be used to reach items on high shelves. C. Heavy items should be stored flatly on lower levels of closet to avoid falling and injuries.

VI. Bathrooms & Kitchen A. Wipe up or mop up spills immediately to prevent slipping B. Store cleaning products separate from food or personal care products C. Use a non-slip tub or shower mat. D. Consider investing in safety bars, shower chairs &/or toilet seat risers to increase safety in bathroom. E. Keep areas well lit & consider a night light for the bathroom

VII. Take Extra Precautions to reduce your risk of falls: A. Turn on the lights when you enter a room. Do not walk in the dark. Use night lights in your bedroom, the bathroom, and hallway leading to the bathroom. B. Make sure your pathway is clear.

C. Use the handrails on staircases. D. Sit in chairs that do not move and have arm rests to help when you sit down and stand up. E. Wear shoes that have firm, flat, non-slip soles. Do not wear shoes that do not have backs on them. F. Replace the rubber tips on canes and walkers when they are worn. G. If you feel unsteady, ask for help going to the bathroom or walking around. H. Put frequently used items in easy-to-reach places. (Section VII contains recommendations from The Joint Commission “Reduce your risk of falling” pamphlet.)