Prepare for the Worst; Expect the Best
Safety, safety, safety: This is the mantra in home care and should always be the primary consideration in your home. Take some time, print out this handy checklist and do an inspection of your home to keep you and your loved ones safe and sound.
Outside
Are all walkways and entrance areas well-lit?
Would motion detection sensors be a good idea for exterior lights?
Are there any overgrown bushes or trees that need to be cut back? (These can be hiding places for unwelcome guests or offer cover to intruders.)
Are all walkway surfaces even and level to prevent slips and falls?
Consider installing ramps and handrails for easier access to the home.
Inside
· Hallways: Are they well-lit and free of clutter?
Would a light-activated nightlight be a good idea to illuminate hallways?
If there are wood floors, would a hallway runner prevent potential falls?
Are doorway thresholds a problem for walkers or wheelchairs? Or could they be potential tripping hazards?
· Living Room: Are there any overloaded electrical sockets?
Are all electrical cords out of the way?
Are chairs, couches and other seating high enough for ease of use?
Consider putting water bottles on nearby coffee tables to encourage hydration throughout the day.
Are area rugs secured with double-sided tape to prevent uneven surfaces or tripping hazards?
· Kitchen: Are items that are used often easily accessible?
Is there a fire extinguisher within reach of the stove or a box of baking soda handy?
Is there a stepstool nearby to access items stored in high cabinets?
Is there evidence of droppings around the baseboards or in cabinets from insects or rodents?
· Bathroom: Is the hot water heater set no higher than 120F?
Are all throw rugs secured to the floor with double-sided tape or have a non-skid backing?
Is there a grab bar near the toilet or an elevated toilet seat if accessibility is an issue? (A towel rack is not the same as a grab bar.)
Is the shower or tub equipped with a grab bar?
Would a bath bench be useful in the shower? What about a hand-held shower attachment?
Is the shower or tub floor slippery? Would a bath mat or appliqués be appropriate?
For nighttime trips to the bathroom, would a nightlight be a good idea?
· Stairway: Are the handrails sturdy and well-attached to the wall?
Are there working light switches at the top and bottom of the stairs?
Do the stairs have non-skid treads?
Are the stairs free of clutter?
Are the edges of steps marked with a different color of paint or nonskid tape?
Fire Safety
· Are all smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in working order? A good rule of thumb is to change the batteries annually, perhaps at the first of the year or when you change your clocks.
· Do you have a plan of escape in case of fire?
Emergency Preparedness
· Do you have at least three days’ worth of shelf-stable food and bottled water in a storage area, along with disposable plates, utensils and a can opener? (1 gallon of water per person per day is recommended.) Don’t forget about the family pet.
· Do you have extra medications in the event of evacuation?
· Do you have a first aid kit that is well-stocked with bandages and antiseptic?
· Do you have a supply of personal hygiene products?
· Do you have copies of vital records in a well-secured area, including a list of prescriptions, personal contacts and insurance records?
· Do you have a flashlight, candles and a portable radio, along with extra batteries and matches?
· Do you have an extra blanket and a pair of sturdy shoes tucked away?
· Do you know where the gas shut-off valve is and how to turn it off?
· If you are on oxygen therapy, do you have portable tanks in case of a power outage?
Being prepared for all eventualities isn’t just paranoid thinking: it assures you and your loved ones peace of mind and can keep you safe and secure in your home. If you have any questions or concerns, please call us at Home Health Care Inc. and we would be happy to answer any questions you may have: (707) 538-0679.
