Home Safety Checklist: Preventing Falls and Injuries at Home

Falls and injuries are common causes of serious health problems for older adults, but many can be prevented by making simple changes at home. This home safety checklist is designed to help identify potential hazards in and around the home that may increase the risk of falls or other injuries. Older adults and caregivers can make small safety improvements creating a safer environment that supports independence and daily living.

A Checklist for Home Safety

As you read through each section, take time to think about how the home is currently set up and whether there are any changes that could make it safer.

Bathroom

• Place a nonskid bathmat on the floor and a nonskid mat in the tub.
• Store all prescription and over-the-counter medicines in original containers and in a safe place.
• Use paper cups in bathroom to avoid spread of germs.
• Be sure they can move safely in the bathroom and in and out of the tub or shower.
• Mount grab bars near the toilet, bath and shower.
• To avoid scalding, make certain the tap water temperature is set no higher than 120 F.
• Use a shower seat.

Bedroom

• Place a lamp and telephone near your bed.
• Make sure bedrooms and bathrooms can be unlocked from the outside.
• Add nightlights to light the path from the bedroom to the bathroom.
• Avoid long robes or nightgowns.

Kitchen

• Store all cleaning supplies in their original containers.
• Always turn pot handles inward when cooking on the stove to avoid possible spills. Use back burners whenever possible.
• Keep a working fire extinguisher in the kitchen.

Everywhere

• If you use a cane, walker or wheel chair, then use it.
• Install a smoke detector in the hallway outside of bedrooms. Check and change batteries regularly.
• Make sure lighting in hallways and on stairs is adequate.
• Remove area rugs to prevent falls and slips.
• Make sure furniture is securely placed and in good repair.
• Install light switches at the top and bottom of the stairs.
• Be cautious of pets, pet toys, leashes, etc.
• Remove clutter. Be sure there are clear walkways throughout the home.
• Post emergency numbers in easy-to-read type near each telephone in the house.
• Keep matches and lighters out of reach.
• Make sure the home has at least two unobstructed exits in case of fire or other emergency.
• Check all electrical cords to make sure they are not cracked or frayed.
• Make certain outlets or extension cords are not overloaded.
• Avoid using space heaters. If they are used, make sure they are in safe condition. Never plug them into an extension cord. Do not place them near drapes or furnishings.
• Know the location of the gas, electricity and water cut-off valves in your home.

Living Room

• If you have a fireplace, wood burning stove or other heat source, place barriers around it to avoid accidental burns.
• Have chimneys and stovepipes inspected and cleaned regularly.

Basement/Garage

• Make certain that hazardous items, such as bug sprays, cleaners, auto care products, and weed killers are secured and in their original containers in the garage, utility room, or basement.

Outdoors

• Keep stairs and walkways clear of snow, wet leaves or other debris. Have a bucket of salt-melt handy.
• Repair cracks or chips in cement sidewalks and stairs.
• Make certain railings, gates, and fences are secure and in good repair. Install railings or a ramp.
• Make sure you have an easy-to-see house number.
• Put away hoses and gardening tools.