Ensuring Safety at Home for Families

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• Use GFCIs: Ground circuit interrupters near water areas such as in kitchen, bathroom or laundry to reduce risk of electrical shock. 
• Never overload electrical outlets with adapters or extension cords. 
• Have appliances checked routinely as manufacturer recommends & follow all fire safety & gas safety guidelines. 
• Install smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors in appropriate place, & fire extinguishers in kitchen. Inspect regularly for proper working condition. Know how to use fire extinguishers & have proper type for kitchen fires. 
• Remove throw rugs & place only in heavy water area. 
• Clean up spills immediately. 
• No wax or polish on floors. 
• Keep commonly used items within reach. 
• AVOID climbing step stools or ladders  
• Use proper cooking safety top: 
• Never leave kitchen when cooking. 
• Never cook with loose clothing while cooking
• Keep paper products or anything flammable within 3 feet of a hot surface or open flame. 
• Always use hand protecting gloves/oven mittens to retrieve hot items. 
• Check oven controls  to make sure they are off.

BATHROOM

• Install grab bars or handrails to offer support when getting in and out of shower and for sitting and getting up from toilet  
• Remove any throw rugs that are a fall hazard or not secure to the floor. Rugs will help catch standing water to prevent falls but must be secure to floor & not slip 
• Use non‐skid material in bath/shower to prevent slips 
• Get toilet safety frame or raised toilet
• Keep bathroom clean and dry to prevent slipping
• Set water heat to 120 degrees
• Install hand held shower nozzle
• Keep personal items like soap and hair products within reach for safe retrieval & storage while showering or bathing 
• Put shampoo and liquid bath soap in hotel sized containers that can be refilled
• Add nightlight or motion detector lights