You can help make sure your home is safe by using this checklist of safety tips from the <a href="[BASEDOMAIN]/healthinfo/bouncelink.aspx?shortcut=nsc" target="_blank">National Safety Council</a>, the <a href="[BASEDOMAIN]/healthinfo/bouncelink.aspx?shortcut=fire" target="_blank">U.S. Fire Administration</a> and the <a href="[BASEDOMAIN]/healthinfo/bouncelink.aspx?shortcut=niaging" target="_blank">National Institute on Aging</a>.
<ul>
 <li>Install smoke detectors on every level of your home. Test each smoke detector every month. Change 9-volt batteries at least once a year. Replace 9-volt-battery and hardwired smoke detectors every 10 years. Replace lithium-battery smoke detectors according to manufacturer's instructions. </li>
 <li>Set space heaters at least 3 feet from anything combustible. </li>
 <li>Keep a flashlight by your bed. Make sure it always has working batteries. </li>
 <li>Keep your phone near your bed so you can answer it without stumbling around in the dark. </li>
 <li>Use no-slip mats in your bathtub or shower and no-slip rugs on bathroom or kitchen floors. </li>
 <li>Install handrails on each side of every staircase. </li>
 <li>Put grab bars in the bathtub, shower and by the toilet. This is important if you have an older or physically disabled person living in your home.</li>
 <li>Use a one-step stool, not a chair, to help you reach shelves or change lightbulbs. </li>
 <li>Have a first aid kit available for treating minor injuries. </li>
 <li>Place nightlights in bedrooms, hallways and bathrooms. </li>
</ul>
Reviewed 5/2/2024

Make your happy home a safe one

Many serious but preventable accidents occur in the home. Use this safety checklist to help spot hazards in your house.