A CHECKLIST FOR PREVENTING FALLS IN YOUR HOME

Stairways

• Make sure all handrails are not broken and are securely fastened.
• Both sides of the steps should have handrails.

Floors and rugs

• Make sure all floor boards are even and rugs, including area rugs, are secured to the floor with tacks, non-skid pads or double-sided tape.
• Use non-skid floor wax.

Bathroom

• Be sure that you can move safely in bathroom area, and in and out of the tub or shower.
• Remove soap build-up in tub or shower on a regular basis.
• Place non-slip strips in bath/shower.
• Install adjustable height shower heads.
• Mount grab bars at the toilet, bath and shower on walls with secure reinforcements, to prevent the bars from coming loose.
• Secure bath mats with non-slip, double-sided rug tape.

Kitchen

• Items that you use frequently, such as dishes and food items, should be easy to reach.
• If you have to use a step stool, make sure that it has a bar at the top to hold on to.

Lighting

• Place nightlights in hallways, bedrooms, bathrooms and stairways.
• Install light switches at the top and bottom of stairs.
• Place a lamp (and telephone) near your bed.
• Keep lighting uniform in each room and add lighting to dark spaces.