For most, the word “home” conjures feelings of safety, warmth, and security. But, unfortunately, after spending heaps of time, money, and effort building, buying, or renting a home, people are often too exhausted even to begin thinking about preventing hazards or accidents. The truth is, most mishaps at home can be easily prevented, which is why it’s so important to take the necessary — and often reasonably simple — measures to do so. This is especially the case for families with young children or seniors. The last thing you want is to be confronted with a dangerous situation and find that it is too late to do something about it.

Use a Home Security System

A home security system is one way to deter burglars and keep your home and family safe. Smart home devices can help secure your home by allowing you to program alarms, access video doorbells, or detect maintenance issues remotely via your smartphone. Also, don’t forget to use the stickers or signs the alarm company offers — these items alert potential robbers that you have an alarm system, which may be the best deterrent of all.

Have a Fire Safety Plan

You likely have smoke detectors in your home, but have you tested them lately to ensure they are fully functional? Test your smoke alarms at least once a month. It’s also a good idea to create an emergency fire escape plan and practice it with your family, so everyone knows what to do in the event of a fire. But the best way to keep your home and family safe from a fire is to take steps to prevent fires before they happen.

Prevent Falls

Falls are especially detrimental to young children and seniors aged 60 and up. Everyday household products often associated with severe falls include baby walkers, windows, trampolines, and other playground equipment.

Prevent household members from falling by implementing the following measures:

• Keep the floors dry to prevent slipping, especially in the kitchen and bathrooms.
• Keep sturdy stepstools to use when reaching for things in closets or the top kitchen cabinets.
• Use safety gates to close off staircases from wandering kids.
• Use soft and protective mats under play equipment.
• Teach kids under 6 years of age to avoid climbing on bunk beds.
• Add non-slip rubber mats in your bathroom to avoid slipping after a shower.
• Ensure that staircases are well-lit, clear of clutter, do not have loose carpeting, and have the appropriate handrails.
• Install a light on the basement stairway and paint the steps a brighter color to make them more visible.

Plan for Storms

Every season brings potential weather emergencies that can harm your home. The best way to help protect your family is to develop an emergency plan. Your family should practice periodic storm drills so that everyone knows what to do in the event of an emergency. A storm safety checklist is an effective way to show your kids how to respond when a storm hits, so they know what to do to stay safe.

Check electrical safety

Damaged cables and cords are an electrical hazard, especially around water. Start your own home electrical inspection by looking for damaged spots in the cables, cords, and outlets throughout your home. Replace any cables or cords that have frayed wires or damage the outer casing. Power strips live under your computer desk, in the garage, the living room, and throughout your home. This may take a little time to ensure they aren’t overloaded, but double-check that they have a surge protection feature.

If you have young children who live in or visit your home, make sure you cover the outlets in every room. Curious fingers can lead to severe injuries. Plastic safety caps are an easy solution to keep those kiddos safe.

Test for asbestos, lead, and radon

Toxins like asbestos, lead, and radon can inhabit your house without you knowing. All three of these substances can cause harmful long-term effects like lung and nerve damage after years of exposure. So run a test this month to ensure your home is safe from these toxic chemicals.

Life can be unexpected, but you can expect safety with the help of HomeWise Roofing & Exteriors. When you choose HomeWise Roofing & Exteriors, you can feel comfortable knowing that we will be here for you today and tomorrow.