Injury Prevention

There's no place like home - and sometimes it seems like there's no place safer. However, many injuries occur in the home.

Injuries in the home don't "just happen." Injuries in your home can be prevented by learning about potential health hazards, taking precautions and making adjustments. Small changes can make a big difference, and most changes are simple and inexpensive.

By inspecting your home and taking action to prevent home injuries, you and your family can live comfortably and safely in your own home for years to come.

Home Safety Tips:

Basement:
TIPS:

  • Adding a strip along the edge of each step, in contrasting colour, makes the stairs easier to see.
  • Handrails on both sides of stairwells should project beyond the top and bottom step.
  • Learn where your fuse box or circuit breaker panel is located. Check with an electrician or Ontario Hydro about any concerns about fuses/circuits.
  • If you are unsure of which fuse to buy, take the fuse you want replaced to the store and let the clerk advise you.
  • Phone your appropriate regional or municipal office for information about disposal of hazardous waste.
  • Hydro may be able to assist you with any questions

Bedroom/Bathroom:
TIPS:

  • Adding a strip along the edge of each step, in contrasting colour, makes the stairs easier to see.
  • Handrails on both sides of stairwells should project beyond the top and bottom step.
  • Learn where your fuse box or circuit breaker panel is located. Check with an electrician or Ontario Hydro about any concerns about fuses/circuits.
  • If you are unsure of which fuse to buy, take the fuse you want replaced to the store and let the clerk advise you.
  • Phone your appropriate regional or municipal office for information about disposal of hazardous waste.
  • Hydro may be able to assist you with any questions

Kitchen:
TIPS:

  • Keep heavy items in lower cupboards and light items no higher than shoulder height.
  • If you wax your floor use a non-slip wax. This should be written on the label.
  • Remove scatter rugs, as they are a common cause of falls.
  • Don't wear loose clothing while cooking. Hanging fabric can easily catch on fire.
  • Turn pot handles inward to prevent accidental "tipping" of the pot.
  • Use oven mitts for handling all hot items. Remember microwaved items are also hot.
  • An appliance store will order new dials for your stove. A red marker can also be used to mark the stove.
  • Use a stool with a handle and rubber tips.

Medications:
TIPS:

  • Ask your doctor or pharmacist questions about your medications such as why you are taking it, side effects and alternatives to taking medications.
  • Complete a medication record and keep it with you at all times, including allergies and conditions.
  • If you have difficulty swallowing pills or opening containers, talk to your pharmacist

Fire Hazard Check:
TIPS:

  • Electrical cords under carpets cause friction and can result in damage to wire casting.
  • It is required by law, that each home have at least one smoke alarm. contact your local fire department for the correct location of this alarm.
  • It is recommended that new batteries be put in your smoke alarm two times per year when you change your clocks.
  • The recommended location for a fire extinguisher is in the kitchen secured on a bracket and away from the stove.
  • Your local fire department can assist you in developing an escape plan from your home.
  • Call the gas company if the pilot light on your furnace goes out or if you smell gas in your home.

Security Check:
TIPS:

  • Put lights on a timer and leave your radio on. Always let a neighbour know you are away.
  • A door viewer in addition to good lighting is the best security system
  • Keep all doors and windows locked at all times, even when you are inside the house.
  • Don't open the door to anyone you are not expecting. If you have any concerns, call your neighbour or the police immediately.
  • A friend or family member may be willing to be your "buddy" so that you may call them in cases of concern: Make sure they have a key to your house.
  • Make arrangements for someone to pick up your mail, shovel your snow or cut your lawn while you are away.
  • Know how to safely operate your apartment intercom.
More Resources on the Web: