Helpful tips to make your home safer

5/25/2019 (Permalink)

Accidents that happen around people's houses lead to several trips to the emergency room or even death each year. Most injuries at home are preventable when using proper caution.

SERVPRO of Lenoir, Duplin and Jones Counties would like for you to improve safety inside and outside of your home. Here are some tips to make this a priority.

• Improve lighting One of the easiest ways to reduce falls is to improve lighting around the home. Make sure light fixtures are using the highest watt light bulb allowed. Light fixtures are even more important in the fall and winter, when there is not as much natural light. Also, make sure there is enough lighting outdoors by the front door, over the garage, and any other place that is used as a passageway. 
• Eliminate slick surfaces Attach nonslip rubber backings on throw rugs and runners. Using bath rugs can reduce slipping on wet surfaces in the bathroom along with nonslip mats used inside bathtubs and showers.
• Declutter all spaces Remove unnecessary furniture and items from rooms to free up more space to walk around. Make sure there are no obstructions near entryways, walkways, stairways and doors.
• Use assistive devices Handrails, grab bars, and nonslip stair treads can make a home safer for people of all ages and physical abilities. Organize closets and cabinets so frequently used items are with easy reach. Step stools can also reduce the risk of injury while reaching for items on high shelves.

SERVPRO of Lenoir, Duplin and Jones Counties hopes that by using these tips, it will help reduce the risk of falling around the home and are very worthwhile home improvement projects most home owners can do themselves.