10 Ways to Make Your Home Safer: Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones

I wanted to take the time to address the first link and the author. While both are directed towards seniors we know as individuals/families with invisible disabilities things we may not have envisioned using until we were old and grey are items we need today some of us as early at 16-20 years old. So enjoy the tips below I found several helpful and hope you do too. - Felicia Qhamata

You're probably most comfortable at home. It's where you feel the safest and most protected. But even in your own home, accidents can happen. You may not be able to prevent every accident, but there are steps you can take to make your home a safer place.

In this article, we'll list ten ways to make your home safe for you and your loved ones. Implement these tips today, and rest easy knowing that you're taking the necessary precautions! Home safety is essential for everyone in the family. Here are ten ways to make your home a safer place:

Invest in smoke and gas detectors.

Smoke detectors can be life-saving devices, so it's vital to have them in your home and test them often. When a fire happens, smoke spreads quickly and can be overwhelming. Smoke detectors will alert you to the presence of smoke so that you can take action and get to safety.

Carbon monoxide is extremely dangerous. It is identified as an invisible, odorless gas that can be deadly. Carbon monoxide poisoning is a severe threat, so it's important to have detectors. Just make sure to put them in strategic places, such as near bedrooms and in the kitchen.

Keep a fire extinguisher on hand and know how to use it.

In the event of a fire, you'll want to be prepared. A fire extinguisher can come in handy because it can help you put out a small fire before it gets out of control. Just make sure that you know how to use it properly! Practice using it so that you're prepared in the event of an emergency.

Make sure your home is well-lit.

Good lighting can deter criminals and help you avoid trips and falls. If you're worried about your electric bill, invest in LED bulbs - they use less energy and last longer than traditional bulbs. Also, consider investing in motion-sensor lights for the outside of your home. Doing so will help you save money and keep yourself safe from potential criminals.

If you have seniors living at home or are the caretaker for individuals with disabilities, motion sensor lights can also be a valuable asset because they can provide an extra level of security. Both may have a hard time getting around their homes, and fumbling for a light switch isn't a good idea. With motion-sensor lights, the chances of falls and injuries are reduced.

Keep poisonous substances out of reach of children and pets.

If you have poisonous substances and chemicals, make sure to keep them out of reach of children and pets. Please put them in a locked cabinet or room where only adults have access. Also, be sure to read the labels carefully and follow the instructions for safe storage.

Another thing you could do is store them in plastic containers and tuck them in the back of a cabinet or basement, where children and pets are less likely to find them.

Install safety devices on doors and windows.

Safety devices such as deadbolts and window locks can help deter criminals and keep your home safe. Consider installing child-safety locks on doors and windows if you have young children. That way, you can rest assured knowing that your little ones can't get out of the house without your permission.

You could also install cameras and an alarm system. These devices will help you keep an eye on your home, even when you're not there. In case of a break-in, the alarm will be sounded, and the authorities will be notified. If you’re not a fan of child-safety items since they can be hard to open, cameras and an alarm system can be a good alternative instead.

Have an emergency plan in place.

During an emergency, it's crucial to have a plan in place. Sit down with your family and create a plan for what to do in case of a fire, earthquake, or another disaster. Once you have a plan, practice it often so that everyone knows what to do.

Keep first aid supplies in an easily accessible place.

You never know when you'll need first aid, so keeping a kit in your home is essential. Be sure to include supplies for treating cuts, scrapes, and burns. It would be best if you also had supplies for dealing with common allergies, such as bee stings.

Be aware of potential home hazards.

Things like electrical cords and loose carpeting can be dangerous if not dealt with properly. Be sure to keep cords out of the reach of children and pets and secure them so that they're not a trip hazard. Also, be sure to fix any loose carpeting or floorboards.

Keep your home clean and clutter-free.

A cluttered home is an accident waiting to happen. Other than being an eyesore- it's also a safety hazard. Having too much stuff in your home can make it challenging to move around, and it can also provide hiding places for criminals. If you have young children, clutter can also be a suffocation hazard. So, it's essential to keep your home clean and tidy.

Install non-slip flooring.

Lastly, you may want to install non-slip flooring in your home. This is especially important if you have seniors or those with trouble walking living with you. Non-slip flooring can help prevent falls and injuries, and it's also easier to clean. You can install non-slip flooring in bathrooms and kitchens or anywhere else in your home where you think it would be beneficial.

Wrapping Up

Making your home safe doesn't have to be complicated. By following these tips, you can make your home a safer place for you and your loved ones. Implement them today and enjoy peace of mind knowing that you're taking the necessary precautions!

Author Bio

David Clark is the CEO of Basement Guides with several years of experience in basement-related problems and home safety. He has written and published many resources and guides related to senior home safety, grants, and home modifications. David is currently working to spread the word about senior home safety and health through resourceful guides and articles.