5 Ways to Make Your Home Safer

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Making a home safer is neither difficult nor expensive. Purchase certain products, such as smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, GFCI outlets, standard outlet covers, etc. Here are five ways to make your home safer.

Electrical Outlets

Purchase outlet covers for any exposed outlet. Inexpensive outlet inserts prevent children from inserting items into outlets. Install GFCI outlets in bathrooms, and in children's bedrooms. These outlets detect the presence of moisture and power surges, instantly turning the circuit off.

Detectors

Different hazards are present with different living situations. In homes with LP gas, purchase and install an LP gas detector. Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, checked on a regular basis, work to keep families safe. Door and window alarms, some available at dollar stores, alert adults that a toddler or child may try to go outside by themselves.

Poisons, Cleaning Solutions, and Other Hazardous Substances

Most people keep detergents and cleaners within an adult's easy reach. Unfortunately, this often places the products within the reach of toddlers as well. Install child locks on lower cabinets, and purchase or build a locking cabinet in the garage for poisons, automotive liquids, pesticides and so on.

Keep alcohol in a locked cabinet. Install locks on medicine cabinets as well. Never leave these cabinets unlocked. Children die every year from alcohol and medicine poisoning.

Cords and Wires

Curtain and shade cords should never hang to the ground in homes with children or small pets. Cut cords that loop at the bottom, and install a wall cleat to hang the cords out of children's reach. Tie electric cords with plastic wire ties, and encase in cord protectors. This prevents pets and toddlers from chewing on the wires.

Ensure wires do not run under rugs or high traffic areas. This causes unnecessary wear to the wire casing.

Inspect wires on a regular basis. Any exposed wires need immediate replacement. Never use an appliance with a broken plug or cracked wiring. Never remove the grounding plug from any appliance or extension cord. Install a grounded outlet if needed to run the device.

Do not allow children near electrical appliances with liquids.

Rugs and Carpets

Use double stick tape to fasten rugs and carpets to the floor. Never place a rug near the top of a staircase. Pick up toys and tools to prevent falls and foot injuries. Prevent toddlers and small pets from chewing on rugs or carpets. Fibers could cause injury to mouths, throats, stomachs and digestive systems.

Purchase items as the budget permits, and install them according to the manufacturer's directions. Enlist the help of family members in identifying hazards.

Keeping your home safe means keeping your family safe and it doesn't cost much more than a little bit of planning. Start by purchasing reliable CO alarms and fire extinguishers.