Preventing Home Injuries: Avoid These Common Home Safety Hazards

Posted by Edmonton Homes.ca on Thursday, June 6th, 2019 at 7:42am.

3 Common Home Safety HazardsCanadian homeowners may not know the dangers that lurk within their own home. Recognizing potential issues can help occupants create a safer environment, preventing possible injuries and more. Explore the 3 most common home safety hazards today.

Obstacles Resulting in Falls

Older adults are particularly susceptible to falling and as a consequence, breaking bones or suffering from a head injury. Residents living in older homes may need to take steps to avoid this common household hazard. Entrances need to be well-lit, with clutter eliminated from walkways and high-traffic areas. Check that railings for steps are secure and pathways have good traction. Aside from removing debris from outdoor steps, it is also important to avoid the use of throw rugs and scatter mats indoors. Wet floors, slippery stairs and scattered toys may increase the potential for falls.

Non-working Smoke Alarms

Home fires can lead to home damage, injury and loss of life. Prevention of serious home fires is relatively easy—the use of operating smoke alarms. Homeowners should ensure that these alarms are working by testing alarms monthly and regularly replacing batteries. Lives have been saved due to having working smoke alarms in a home. Smoke alarms should be located at every level of a larger home. Families may also want to understand how to properly operate a fire extinguisher and practice a fire escape plan. All occupants should be ready to act if a home fire does occur in a home.

No Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Every Windermere new home should have an operating carbon monoxide detector. As carbon monoxide gas is almost impossible for humans to detect—being odorless and invisible—a carbon monoxide detector is essential. Asphyxia has happened to those exposed to furnace fumes and vehicle exhaust containing this gas. Symptoms of those breathing carbon monoxide include shortness of breath, headaches and nausea. As with smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms need regular testing and there should be more than one alarm installed in most homes.

Making a Safer Home

Obstacles, home fires and carbon monoxide gas are three of the most common problems found in homes. Although it is impossible to eliminate the possibility of a fall or home fire, Canadian homeowners can do much to avoid potential safety hazards and be alerted of possible issues.

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