Falls are the leading cause of accidents and injuries in the home. While workplace, retail, and public facility mishaps tend to receive the most exposure, residential falls are just as threatening and damaging to personal wellbeing. Falling at home might not result in a major lawsuit or scandal, but can nonetheless lead to bone fractures, soft tissue damage, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), cuts, abrasions, spinal cord injuries and more. For individuals over the age of 70, slip and falls are the 6th most common cause of death.
To prevent residential falls and keep your home a safe and healthy setting, follow these tips:
Keep Things Tidy
Too often, debris is the reason behind trips that ultimately lead to falls and their associated injuries. That’s why staying organizing and maintaining a clutter-free abode is good for the household. Never let clutter build up to the point that it’s spilling onto walkways and floors. If you live in a two-story home, avoid the temptation of piling things that need to be taken upstairs onto stair treads. If toys, clothes, and knickknacks go unnoticed, they could cause a serious and potentially fatal stair tumbling incident.
Brighten Up Your Home
Poor lighting is another source for falls in the home. Around 20 percent of all residential falls occur during the night when natural light is nowhere to be found. Make outdoor walkways safer with exterior lighting, either installed into the ground to line the walkway or with a spotlight illuminating the entryway for easy, safe access. Inside, use plug-in nightlights near staircases, sharp corners and doorways. While they provide a subtle and romantic glow, never leave candles burning unattended. Not only are they limited in their brilliance to prevent residential falls, a flickering flame could be knocked over and create a serious fire hazard.
Keep Floors Dry
From an interior design standpoint, wall-to-wall carpeting is no longer the floor of choice for homeowners and renters alike. Hardwoods and tiles tend to feel more modern and hygienic, but these slick surfaces are not without their faults. Once moisture accumulates, hard surfaces transform into slipping hazard zones that must be protected. Always shield entryways and bathrooms with durable and absorbent floor mats that curb wet messes before they wreak havoc.
No matter where they occur, most slip and fall accidents can be averted when the proper groundwork and precautions are in place. To learn more about residential fall protection strategies, call Eagle Mat’s friendly customer representatives at 877-333-1018.
