Fall-Proofing Your Home

Your home may be filled with fall hazards, so take a look around every room. There are easy preventative measures you can take to prevent falls and eliminate hazards.

Bedroom

• Place a lamp and telephone close to your bed where they are easy to reach.
• Arrange clothes in your closet so they are easy to reach.
• Put in a night-light so you can see where you’re walking after dark.

Living areas

• Arrange furniture so you have clear pathways.
• Remove area or throw rugs or use non-slip backing tape so the rugs will not slip.
• Keep electrical and telephone cords out of walkways.
• Do not sit on a chair or sofa that is too low and makes it difficult for you to stand up.
• Install light switches at the entrances to rooms so you do not have to walk into a dark room to turn on a light.
• Remove papers, boxes, books, clothes, shoes and all clutter from pathways.

Bathroom

• Place a slip-resistant rug adjacent to the bathtub for safe exit and entry.
• Use a non-slip rubber mat or non-skid adhesive textured strips on the floor of your tub or shower.
• Install grab bars for support inside the tub and next to the toilet.
• Replace glass shower enclosures with non-shattering material.

Kitchen

• Never stand on chairs or boxes to reach upper cabinets or shelves. If you must use a step stool, use one with a bar to hold on to.
• Store food, dishes and cooking equipment within easy reach. Move items on high shelves to cabinets, lower shelves or countertops.
• Immediately clean up any liquids or food spilled on the floor.

Stairs and steps

• Provide enough light to see each stair and the top and bottom landings.
• Make sure all carpeting is firmly attached to every step or remove the carpet and attach non-slip rubber treads.
• Make sure handrails are on both sides of the stairs and fix them if they become loose.