Home Hazard Safe-Proofing

Conduct a thorough assessment of your home to identify potential hazards such as unsecured heavy furniture, flammable materials, and electrical risks.

Secure heavy furniture and appliances to the walls to prevent tipping, which includes bookshelves, dressers, and TVs especially in areas where earthquakes are prevalent or in homes with small children.

Ensure that fire safety measures include working smoke detectors, easily accessible fire extinguishers, and an established family evacuation plan.

Check the electrical wiring and devices for any fraying or damage, and replace them as necessary. Consider installing outlet covers, especially if small children are present.

Properly store all chemicals, cleaning supplies, and medicines out of reach of children and pets, ideally in locked cabinets.

Prepare an emergency kit containing essentials such as water, non-perishable food, first-aid supplies, flashlights, and important documents.

If you have a pool or hot tub, ensure it has a childproof barrier and consider installing alarms on doors that lead to the pool area. Teach all household members basic water safety.

Apply anti-slip mats or strips to tubs and showers and secure loose rugs with non-slip pads to prevent falls.

Install window guards or safety stops to prevent falls, especially in homes with young children.

Regularly test and replace batteries in carbon monoxide and smoke detectors to ensure they are functioning properly.

Review and update safe-proofing measures regularly or after any major home alterations to maintain safety.

Conduct regular emergency exit drills with all household members to ensure everyone knows what to do and where to go in case of an emergency.