Injuries from slip and fall accidents can be utterly devastating, especially if you’re getting on in age. Although slips and falls are the number one cause of accidents in restaurants and public buildings, they can be equally as dangerous — if not more dangerous — when you’re at home.
No one expects to be in danger while in what’s supposed to be the sanctity of your own home. Yet the added risk that comes from not being able to get up or call for help can be life-threatening. Even when help does arrive, many people must wait in agony for someone to find them.
Fortunately, these accidents can be prevented with relative ease. With a little bit of effort and a lot of caution (and some help from friends, family, and technology), the fear of slipping and falling in your own home will be a thing of the past.
To avoid falls at home, here are a few ways to get started.
- Clear the clutter. Trip and falls are deadly in their own right; it’s vital that you ensure all pathways (such as hallways and constantly tread routes throughout the home) are clear of debris, including cords, wires — even pet food and water dishes. In fact, it’s a good idea to vacate all floors in your home of unnecessary items — either move them to a safer position or throw them out.
- Light it up. Remove the risk that comes with fumbling in the dark; all hallways and doorways should be illuminated, including the external route up to your front door. Install nightlights so you can always keep one eye on your feet with confidence in where it’s going to land.
- Stick them down. Guarantee that any and all carpets in your room have non-slip backings, or secure them with double-sided adhesive tape. Throw rugs should be removed entirely, and non-slip strips or mats should be placed in the areas that pose the highest amount of risk: front door steps and in/around your bathtub or shower.
Your home is supposed to be the safest place in the world — by following these three fall-proofing suggestions, it will be.
