Safe Home Tips

Fire safety, cooking, smoking, trips and falls are issues of concern for seniors. Here are some safety tips.

Safety Around the Home

• Have a working smoke alarm, check it monthly, change the battery once a year. • Have a working light outside your door • Have emergency information readily available. Clearly label all medicines.In case of fire, plan your escape!

• Know where the exits are.
• Practice getting out safely.
• Call 9-1-1 from a neighbors’ house. If your clothes catch fire stop, drop and roll or smother the fire with a blanket, towel or rug.

Smoking:

• Use a large non-tip ashtray; empty ashes often.
• Dampen ashes before emptying into a metal container.
• Do not smoke when using oxygen.
• Do NOT smoke in bed.

In the bathroom

• Use non-slip rugs.
• Have grab bars, rubber mats or non-slip strips in your tub and shower.

In the kitchen

• Keep lids nearby when you cook.
• If your pan catches fire, carefully slide a lid on it and turn off the stove.
• Wear clothes with short or close fitting sleeves when cooking.
• If you leave the kitchen while cooking, turn off the stove. In the living room
• Use electrical outlets wherever possible.
• Extension cords should be used on a temporary basis and MUST be UL approved.
• Use furniture with safe sturdy legs – no propping up with magazines or books.

In the bedroom

• Keep floor uncluttered.
• Keep house keys, eye glasses,flashlight, phone next to your bed.
• Do NOT smoke in bed.