Home may be where the heart is, but it can often be the place where older adults are most injured. Be on the lookout in your loved one's home for these common household hazards.
Fire Risks
- Outlets and switches that are unusually warm or hot to the touch can mean faulty wiring
- Outlets with smudge marks around the socket can mean an electrical short, which can lead to a fire
- Cracked cords and overloaded outlets can also lead to fire
- Space heaters that are improperly plugged in or are left near flammable materials
- Keeping flammable materials like cloths, towels or plastics near the stove top
- Improper ventilation in the kitchen
- Ashtrays, smoking materials or other heat sources near the bed
- Exits that are blocked or cluttered can make it hard for an emergency exit
Tripping and Falling Hazards
- Cords from lamps, phones and other devices that are in their walking path
- Rugs and runners lacking a slip-resistant backing
- Poorly lit stairways or slick staircase surfaces
- Poor lighting throughout the house, a lack of proper bulbs in lamps and lighting fixtures
- Bathtubs or showers lacking non-skid mats
- No grab bars in the bathroom and shower
Telephone Access
- Telephones without emergency numbers nearby
- Telephones that are not within easy reach (they should be next to the bed and on low table tops so they are easily accessible in case of a fall)
- The absence of smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors (they should be on every floor and have the batteries replaced according to the instructions)
Ready to take the next step? To learn more about how Friendship Village can help you and your loved ones Get Set 4 Life®, please call us at 847-490-6271 to speak with a Friendship Village Residency Counselor.
