Many people think of their home as a safe place for themselves and their loved ones. Unfortunately, injuries occurring on residential property result in nearly 21 million medical visits and 20,000 deaths each year. It is important that you and your family be aware of potential home hazards and the ways to keep your environment free from danger.

Below is a checklist that provides ideas you can implement to make your dwelling safer, such as ensuring that you have an emergency evacuation plan and checking for recalls on potentially hazardous items commonly found in residences.

I hope that you find this information helpful. Please let me know if I can be of any assistance.

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Home Safe Home

• Create an evacuation plan. Review your escape routes & designate a meeting place.
• Place a fully stocked first-aid kit in an easily accessible location. Visit Redcross.org
• Test and replace fire extinguishers. Make sure everyone knows where they are and how to use them. Keep one on each floor and one in the kitchen.
• Place important phone numbers including the fire department, medical assistance & poison control 800-222-1222 near each phone. Make sure kids know how to dial 911.
• Have the chimney checked and cleaned regularly. Annually if used often.
• Keep burning candles at least 1 foot away from flammable items. Only burn them in noncombustible materials. Extinguish before leaving home.
• Electrical wires should not be run under carpets. Inspect cord plugs for wear or damage. Loose receptacles should be replaced. Unplug appliances not in use.
• If children are present install safety receptacles or insert safety plugs in outlets.
• Install smoke detectors in each room of the home. Replace batteries semi-annually.
• If you have a gas furnace install a carbon-monoxide detector. Mount it according to the instructions, down low as CO gas is heavier than air.
• Regularly service the furnace to ensure no safety issues develop.
• Keep portable heaters at least 3 feet from flammable items. Unplug them when not in use.
• Tie window blind cords with clothespins or specially designed clips. They are a choking hazard for young children.
• Check for recalls on appliances, electronics, furniture and children’s items. Visit Recalls.gov.
• Securely fasten heavy furniture items including bookcases, shelves, and mirrors.
• Make sure the stove has an anti-tipping cleat installed. Put hot pans on back burners.
• Ensure all water features and pools are fenced to protect children.
• Safely store potentially unsafe items such as:
  • Garage tools, Automotive fluids, Pool Chemicals, Gardening products, Pesticides
  • Medications, Cosmetics, Mouthwash, Cleaners, Perfumes, Dyes & sprays
  • Kitchen cleaners, Sharp objects, Small appliances.