Did you know that most car accidents happen within 2 miles of the home? It’s because people are so familiar with their surroundings that they’re less careful. This goes for accidents in your home, too. To help hazard-proof your home and keep your family protected, here are a few of Warner Service’s simple fixes to make your home safer:
- Pay attention to the staircase. If you have kids, you’re familiar with the clutter at the bottom of the staircase. The first two or three steps are makeshift storage areas for shoes, jackets, school backpacks, mismatched socks, and various other “things.” To prevent accidents, tidy up your staircase. You should also check the railings for wobbling, and take the proper precautions to fix them up.
- Get socket blockers. To prevent electrocution, keep your little ones from sticking their fingers, forks and whatever else they get their hands on by putting plastic outlet protectors in each socket.
- Clean up the chimney and wood-burning stoves. Hire a professional to clean up the fireplace at least once per year. It’s also a good idea to keep flammable items away from the area.
- Inspect your outdoor walkways. Rain, snow, and ice make driveways and front porches more dangerous than most people think. To prevent a slip, make sure your steps and sidewalks are clear of any natural accumulation. Homeowners should also install adequate lighting for nighttime strolls. Thankfully there are motion sensor lights and light timers – because nobody likes stubbing their toe.
- Don’t use extension cords. Electrical extension cords are a trip-and-fall accident waiting to happen. Have an expert install permanent wiring throughout your home.
- Cut down on curling carpet corners. Grab some double-sided tape and get to work on those curled corners (or, if your wallet permits it, install hardwood flooring). It’ll save someone a trip where you’ll see him or her next fall.
- Clean out your dryer vents. At the very least, after each load of laundry, clean out your lint screen. To be extra cautious, have a professional clean your vent system at least once per year. Doing so will greatly reduce the risk of a dryer fire and keep your appliances running efficiently.
- Keep the sharp objects hidden. This is typically a no-brainer, but we have to include it because it’s that important. If it has a pointed end, hide it from your little ones and lock the cabinet or drawer with childproof apparatuses.
- Avoid allergens and pathogens. Pound for pound, children breathe more air than adults do, so they’re especially vulnerable to harmful allergens. To avoid pollutants, don’t let anyone smoke in your home, and use exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathrooms. You should also put a dehumidifier in the basement, remove any water-damaged carpet and furniture, and change the air filter once per month.
- Be careful with candles. For obvious reasons, candles are dangerous. Keep your kids and pets away from the flame by swapping traditional candles for LED versions.
- Test the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. While some smoke detectors get a little antsy (hello, burnt toast), they’re also lifesavers – literally. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors once per month to make sure everything is in working order.
Keeping your family safe and healthy is the No. 1 priority. To do so, follow our few simple tips and tricks to make your home safer. From a little bit of outdoor lighting and chimney sweeping to locking up the sharp stuff and investing in socket blockers, your home will be safer in no time.
If you need our help with keeping your home’s appliances healthy, give Warner Service a call. We’d be happy to help.
