IS YOUR HOME A HAZARD? - Part 1

Falls are the most common injury by far among adults, and the leading cause of accidental death among those 65 and older.  Here are some ways to prevent injuries:

- Remove throw rugs or use double-sided tape or a non-slip backing to secure them.
- Clear a path.  You should never have to walk around furniture or piles of papers, or hop over extension cords or safety gates.
- Make sure there's a light in your stairway, and light switches (the kind that glow) at the top and bottom of the stairs.  If your home lacks those, hire an electrician.
- Where practical (the cellar or garage, for starters), paint the top edge of stairs with a contrasting color so that you'll see it better.
- Secure loose stair carpeting, fix loose or uneven stairs, and consider putting handrails on both sides of stairs.
- In the kitchen, put often used items on shelves you don't have to stretch to reach.
- Invest in a good step stool; don't use a chair.
- Many tubs and showers are too slippery, so use a rubber mat.
Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Consumer Reports

Next month: more safety tips! . . .


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