Every year, thousands of Americans die from injuries that happen in their own homes. From major burns to accidental poisoning and even electrocution, millions of people make their way to the hospital, and while things happen that out of our control, most of these accidents are avoidable.

 

But to avert an accident, you first must know where they happen the most and how to prevent them.

 

The Bathroom

 

We spend much of our time in the bathroom, so it is no surprise that is the most dangerous place in the house. And since avoiding it is not a viable solution, here are a few ways, you can reduce the risk of an accident.

 

Safety bars. Putting a safety bar in the shower could provide much-needed assistance if you find yourself slipping. It’s especially important for elderly homeowners. In addition to a handrail in the shower, it’s also a good idea for older residents or those with compromised mobility to have one next to the toilet.

 

Watch your kids. If you are the parent of a small child or children, never leave them alone in the bath. Older kids need to be looked in every so often. A rowdy kid and slippery shower are not a good combo.

 

Non-slip rugs. One of the smartest ways to avoid a slip and fall injury in your bathroom is to place a non-skid rug outside the tub. This will help to minimize falling on the wet tile floor.  You may consider adding a shower mat inside the tub as well.

 

Regular cleanings. Keeping your bathroom clean is another way you can prevent unnecessary accidents in your home. Mopping up water build up and getting rid of soap residue on the floor will reduce the risk of injury significantly.

 

Kitchen Safety

 

The next hot spot for accidents in the home is the kitchen. It’s no surprise with all that lurks in our kitchens that it can be a danger zone. Here are some easy things you can do to keep your kitchen safe.

 

Clean up spills. Slips and falls make up most household injuries. So, the smart way is to clean up a mess as soon as it happens to prevent injuries.

 

Childproof. The kitchen is a wonderland of danger for kiddos. Be sure to keep all cleaners, bug sprays, and detergents locked up or out of reach. Knives and other sharp utensils should be put up and far away from the edge of counters or in a drawer with a child safety lock on them.

 

Guest Injuries

 

You are your family are not the only ones at risk for injury in your home. A guest may fall down your stairs or slip on a spilled drink. Accidents will happen. It’s just part of life; no matter how hard we try to prevent them.

 

That’s why a homeowners policy with sufficient liability limits is good coverage to have if a guest injures themselves in your home. Liability will then help protect you in the event someone gets hurt accidentally and sues you over medical bills.

 

Ways You Can Help Protect Your Family and Guests from Avoidable Injuries

 

• Get rid of clutter. This is essential to prevent falls. Rather than putting items on the floor, place them in storage rooms, closets, or bins to avoid precarious footing.

 

• Rethink area rugs. They’re more likely to cause falls. If you love your rugs and want to keep them, you can place tape on the back side of small rugs to prevent sliding or put furniture on top of larger ones to stop movement and bunching.

 

• Wear slippers or shoes with rubber soles. Wandering around in socks can be unsafe as well. Walking around barefoot could cause you to stub a toe, which could cause a nasty fall.

 

• Safety-proof stairs. Have sturdy handrails on both sides of the staircase. Repair immediately if they become loose. For little kids, place safety gates at the top and bottom of the stairs. Add a banister guard to stop little ones from slipping through the spaces.

 

• Light it up. Make sure to have adequate lighting and night lights in hallways and the bathroom.

 

Final Thoughts

To learn more about proper home safety and homeowners insurance contact the professionals with ProtectiveAgency.com at (877) 739-9367. Our licensed insurance agents will be happy to answer any questions you have.