Accidents will happen but you can take steps to help to prevent them

Stairs

Make sure the stair case is well lit.

Change your light bulb if necessary.

Don’t leave objects lying around the stairs

Make sure the stair carpet is securely fixed and doesn’t slip about.

Make sure your shoes or slippers have non-slip soles and are not loose fitting on your feet.

Safety for children in the home

If your children live with you or visit you regularly it is a good idea to have somewhere to lock away medicines and tablets.

Household chemicals should also be kept out of sight and reach of children.

Cover electric sockets with safety plugs to prevent children putting fingers in them.

Heaters

Always place heaters away from bed clothes, curtains, furniture and main walk ways, in a position where they cannot easily be knocked over.

Never dry washing close to a heater or on a fireguard in front of a fire.

Be careful not to sit too close to a fire or heater as your clothes could catch fire.

Electric Plugs and Appliances

Unless you are absolutely sure how to fit plugs properly, have them fitted by an electrician.

Turn off the supply at the wall before you put in or pull out plugs.

Check plugs regularly to make sure they are not damaged.  Look for signs of overheating.

Never overload power points. If there are not enough sockets use a fused trailing adaptor.

If plug feels warm switch it off immediately and get it checked.

If a piece of electrical equipment cuts out continually, gives off a strange smell or if the plug feels warm switch it off immediately and get it checked.

Safety in the Kitchen

Keep saucepan handles turned inwards over the cooker, to prevent them being accidentally knocked over.

When cutting or chopping food, use a non-slipmat to prevent dishes and boards from moving

Don’t overfill the kettle. This makes it heavier to lift and is a waste of your fuel bill.

Try to avoid carrying saucepans full of hot food long distances

Make sure all the things you need are within easy reach so you don’t have to stretch too far.

Safety in the Bathroom

Non-slip mats are essential to avoid slipping accidents in the bath or shower.

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Always run the cold water before the hot and mix the two together to ensure an even temperature before getting into a bath.

Take care when getting out of the bath, pull the plug out first and step onto a non-slip mat.

Safety in the Bedroom

The height of the bed is very important for ease and safety. You should be able to put your feet flat on the floor when sitting on the edgeof the bed.

If you use an electric blanket, make sure you read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. As a general rule you should always switch off the electric blanket before you get into bed.

Never smoke in bed.