header
Seniors and Painicon-print

Home Safety Checklist

General


  • Make clear, uncluttered paths throughout the house
  • Remove low chairs that are hard to get in and out of
  • Tape all extension, telephone and electrical cords to the wall or floor (do not use nails or staples)
  • Install several cordless telephones in different rooms around the house
  • Organize shelves and cabinets so that frequently used items are in easy reach
  • Keep a large-print list of important numbers near the telephone
  • Program the speed-dial function on the telephones
  • Install an intercom system
  • Install an alarm system
  • Give older parents a wearable alarm device
  • Replace all frayed or worn electrical cords
  • Install more electrical outlets as needed
  • Make sure extension cords are not underneath rugs or furniture and that they are not overloaded
  • Install bright, non-glare lighting throughout the house
  • Cover all bare bulbs with shades to reduce additional glare
  • Relocate light switches so that people don’t have to walk through dark areas to reach them
  • Install and service smoke detectors on each floor
  • Install and service fire extinguishers in high-risk areas (e.g., kitchen, garage)
  • Remove casters on beds, chairs and tables
  • Draw up and practice an evacuation plan
  • Paint the walls a different color than the floors to create contrast. (Light floors are preferable.)
  • Redesign any areas in the home that have a step up or down
  • Replace round doorknobs with lever handle doorknobs
  • Move space heaters away from flammable surfaces or objects (e.g., curtains, bedspreads, rugs, etc.)
  • Buy a sturdy stepstool with handrails
  • Use frosted bulbs, indirect lighting and shaded light fixtures to reduce glare
  • Replace lightswitch covers with “glow-in-the-dark” versions
  • Place flashlights around the house
  • Remove or lower all door thresholds

Floors


  • Remove throw rugs or make sure they have non-skid backing (check the backing often as it tends to wear out)
  • Tack carpet edges to the floor
  • Use non-skid wax on wood floors
  • Use rough tile and/or short-fiber carpet
  • Place rubber matting underneath rugs

Entryway


  • Remove hooks, unstable coat trees and other objects that may cause harm
  • Set exterior lights on a timer so that they switch on automatically at dusk
  • Place a shovel, broom, sand and salt next to the door

Stairs and Hallway


  • Add treads or low-pile carpet to the stairways
  • Check that all existing carpet is securely attached
  • Install brightly colored non-skid strips or a contrasting paint color at the edge of the stairs
  • Install lights and easily operated light switches at the top and bottom of the stairs
  • Ensure all ventilation and exhaust systems are in proper working order
  • Unplug and store all small appliances not in use
  • Install ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets
  • Clear the sink area of any cords or appliances
  • Install bright, non-glare lighting over the stove, sink and countertops
  • Raise or lower countertops to minimize lifting
  • Raise or lower cabinets to ease access
  • Replace all shiny surfaces with matte, non-glare options
  • Install a single-lever mixing faucet
  • Ensure all oven and range knobs are clearly marked and easily operated
  • Install non-slip flooring and remove all throw rugs
  • Store hot pads close to the oven and range

Bedroom


  • Consider installing a bedroom on the first floor if one does not already exist
  • Install telephone at bedside
  • Install lamps and/or light switches at bedside
  • Install a sturdy nightstand
  • Install a nightlight
  • Remove heating pads and electric blankets
  • Ensure bed is at the best height for its users
  • Make sure stored items and clothing are easily accessible
  • Install a sturdy and secure chair to be used for dressing

Living Room


  • Ensure all seating is sturdy, well-positioned and not too low, too soft or too deep
  • Ensure all seating has full arms and can be used for support when getting in and out of
  • Check that the TV is on a stable surface and will not tip over

Exterior


  • Repair all exterior walkways and stairs
  • Paint exterior stairs with rough-textured paint and/or install non-skid strips
  • Paint step edges white
  • Ensure exterior lighting on doorways, stairways, walkways and porches is maintained; add more as needed
  • Replace door handles and locks with easily-operated versions (levers instead of knobs, for example)
  • Check that handrails are securely fashioned and easily used