Household Safety Tips
Accidents will happen - but there a number of things you can do around your home, condominium or vacation property to help lessen the chance of one occurring. Here are some hazard prevention measures we've thought of - surely you can think of more:
Fire Prevention:
- Have at least one smoke detector on every level of your home and test them regularly;
- Follow label warnings when working with, or storing, combustible materials (solvents, paint thinners, etc.);
- Store gasoline (for lawn and garden equipment) only in small quantities in approved safety containers and only in a garage or storage shed, not in the house;
- Don't leave burning candles unattended
Childproofing:
- Cover electrical outlets;
- Be sure your electric garage door has a safety reverse feature and check to make sure it is working properly;
- Keep out of children's reach:
medication, both prescription and over-the-counter, detergents and cleaning materials, tools (hammers, saws, nails, power-tools, etc.);
- Prevent accidental drowning by not leaving children unattended near water, including bathtubs, wading pools and pails or buckets filled with water;
- Prevent burning or scalding by turning down the temperature on your water heater.
Trip Hazards:
- Keep staircases, hallways, and other frequently passed areas free of clutter and items that people can trip on;
- Light staircases well, so that each step can be seen;
- Make sure area rugs have non-slip backing materials and consider eliminating area rugs in high traffic areas.
Appliances and Heating Units
- Know where your fuse box is and which fuses or circuit breakers control each circuit;
- When using extension cords, ensure they are not damaged or cut and make sure they do not get hot;
- When using extension cords outside, only use those that are rated for outside use;
- When replacing light bulbs, be sure your hands are dry and be sure the fixture is turned off;
- Do not use bulbs that exceed the wattage recommended for the fixture;
- Do not hang paper towel racks, curtains or towels by a toaster oven, as they can ignite
|
|
