Wellness Wednesday: Make Your Home a Safe Haven

Your home should be your sanctuary, and the place where you find comfort and feel safe. However, our homes can pose some serious safety risks, putting you and your family unintentionally in harm’s way. In fact, in 2022, there were over 128,000 home deaths resulting from preventable injuries. While there is no way to avoid every risk, you can implement a routine home safety audit to identify potential hazards and help protect you and your family. Below is a list of essential home safety checks and how often they should be done to ensure your home remains a safe haven.  

1. Fire Safety  
   • Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Detectors – Ensure all smoke detectors are working correctly. Test them monthly and replace the batteries at least once a year. 
   • Fire Extinguishers – Keep fire extinguishers in key areas and make sure everyone in the home is aware of their location. It is also important to familiarize yourself with how to use your fire extinguishers. Check the pressure gauge monthly to ensure they are not defective. Remember to replace them if they are expired or damaged.  
   • Escape Plan – If there is a fire, you may have less than three minutes to get out of your home. Talk with your loved ones and make sure everyone in your home knows what to do if there is a fire. Review your escape plan at least annually with all household members. 
2. Electrical Safety 
   • Cords and Appliances – Check all electrical cords monthly and ensure they are in good condition and not broken, frayed or have any cuts. Additionally, cords should never feel warm to the touch. Check major appliances for wear and tear, and schedule inspections or maintenance for repairs annually. 
   • Outlets and Switches – Inspect for signs of damage, such as discoloration or warmth.  
3. Structural Damage 
   • Stairs and Railings – Inspect staircases for loose or damaged steps, handrails or carpeting. Ensure that railings are secure and at the proper height for safety. 
   • Trip Hazards – Walk through your home and identify any trip hazards, such as loose rugs, clutter or uneven flooring. Correct these issues to prevent falls. 
   • Gutter and Roof Inspection – Check your gutters and roof seasonally (every 3-4 months) for debris, leaks or damage, especially after significant weather events. 
4. Child Safety 
   • Childproofing – Install safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs, secure furniture to the walls and use outlet covers to prevent electrical shock. Keep small objects, chemicals, firearms and sharp items out of reach, and consider cabinet locks. 
   • Pool Safety – If you have a pool, ensure it is fenced and has a self-closing, self-latching gate. Always supervise children around water, even if they know how to swim. Ensure annually that all gate locks and safety barriers are working properly.  
5. Home Security  
   • Locks and Doors: Check all locks on doors and windows to ensure they are functioning properly. Install deadbolts on exterior doors and consider upgrading to smart locks for added convenience and security. 
   • Security Systems: Consider investing in a home security system that includes alarms, cameras and monitoring services. Ensure the system is regularly tested and updated to function properly. 

Performing regular home safety checks is crucial to maintaining a secure and comfortable living environment. By being proactive and addressing potential hazards, you can protect your home and loved ones from accidents, injuries and other risks. Make these checks a part of your routine and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is safe.  

Additional Resources: 

• Deaths in the Home: Introduction – Injury Facts (nsc.org) 
• The Ultimate Home Safety Checklist (adt.com) 
• Perform An Annual Home Safety Audit – State Farm® 
• Home Accident Statistics (2024) (rubyhome.com)