Play it safe: Avoid household accidents

Cynthia Lopinto Feature Article Leave a comment 2,218 Views

By CYN LoPINTO
Editor-in-chief, gerontologist

Household accidents can cause an unexpected visit to your local emergency room. Avoid the trip. Take a look around your kitchen, bedrooms, bathrooms and living area to see if the following simple suggestions could help you or those you love remain safe.

Kitchen

Keep paper towels, napkins and potholders away from burners
Make sure kitchen floor is free of clutter
Avoid loose-fit clothing while cooking (roll up or fasten long sleeves)
Store knives so blades are protected
Do not leave cooking pots unattended
Check oven and stove dials to see if they are easy to read (on older appliances the marking may be scratched off), replace if necessary
Have adequate lighting in all areas
Fasten all kitchen floor mats with adhesive strips or replace with the non-skid types (check these periodically)
Label hot/cold faucets and make sure water temperature does not exceed 120 degrees or scalding can occur
Use exhaust fan (hood) over stove or oven while cooking
Place a multipurpose (A,B and C type) fire extinguisher in easy reach

Bathroom

Secure toilet seat to toilet and if using raised seat or safety frame, make sure it is installed properly
Have a non-skid bath mat or tub strips fastened to the tub surface
Purchase a bath seat or transfer bench for safer movement in and out of tub
Keep electrical equipment (hair dryers, electric shavers, etc.) away from water
Place a night light in the bathroom for evening use
Install grab bars properly to bathroom wall beams (towel racks should NEVER be substituted for grab bars and are a leading cause of many household accidents)
Lay a large piece of carpet in the bathroom area instead of the traditional bath-size rugs
Label hot/cold faucets clearly and make sure water temperature does not exceed 120 degrees

Bedroom

Do not tuck blankets tightly in case you need to get out of your bed in a hurry (especially true for electric blankets which may get too hot)
Keep a bedroom night light on or install a light switch near the bed for those late night bathroom trips
Have a telephone next to the bed for emergencies
Avoid smoking in bed (if you must, make sure ashtray is well away from all bedding)
Place all mobility equipment (canes, walkers, wheelchairs, etc.) close by the bed for fast access

Living Area

Make sure all telephone and electrical wires are out of walkways
Replace standard door knobs with lever-type handles for those with limited grip
Secure stairways by placing light switches at both the top and bottom of flight and install full length railing on both sides
Provide a well-lit area throughout the entire house (use non-glare or frosted bulbs)
Remove or properly fasten area rugs to floor (if wall-to-wall carpeting is throughout the home, check for bubbling, fraying or high spots that could cause accidents)
Ensure furniture is sturdy (especially if used for support while getting up and down)
Arrange coffee and end tables so they are out of the way of walking areas

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Cynthia Lopinto

Cyn LoPinto, M.A. is a gerontologist focusing on significant issues affecting older adults and their families. Her areas of interest include lifestyle enrichment, family dynamics, and caregiver support. Cyn has worked in both the recreational and healthcare industries.