Safety Checklist for the Elderly

These are some safety precautions which should be checked for the elderly in their homes.

Cords

Lamps, extension and telephone cords placed out of the traffic flow. Cords out from beneath furniture, rugs or carpeting and appliances?

· Do extension cords carry their proper load, as indicated by the ratings label on the cord and the appliance?
· Are extension cords and plugs in good condition? Replace cords with damaged wires, loose or broken plugs, loose connections or cords that get hot while in use.

Rugs, Runners and Mats

· Small rugs and runners slip resistant /in good condition?

Telephone Area

· Post telephone numbers on or near he telephone
· Is the telephone cord placed out of traffic flow?
· Is there access to a telephone in the event of a fall, which prevents victim from standing and reaching a wall phone?

Smoke Detectors

· Smoke detectors properly located and working properly.

Electrical Outlets and Switches

· Are any outlets or switches warm or hot to touch?
· Do all outlets and switches have cover plates?
· Are switches and electrical outlets working properly?
· Replace cover plates that are cracked or broken

Light Bulbs

·Light bulbs the appropriate size and type for the fixture
·Ceiling light fixtures in good working order

Stairs

· Stairs well lit.
· Light switches located at the top and bottom of stairs?
· Do the steps allow secure footing?
· Are the steps even and the same size and height?

· Are the coverings on the steps in good condition?
· Are the edges of the steps clearly visible?
· Is anything being stored on the stairway?

Kitchen

· Towels, curtains and other flammable objects located away from the range.
· Wear clothing with short or tight fitting sleeves while cooking.
· Good, even lighting over all kitchen work areas.

Bathroom

· Bathtub and showers equipped with nonskid mats, abrasive strips, or surfaces that are not slippery.
· Do bathtubs or showers have at least one grab bars?
· Do you check the water temperature before stepping in?
· Light switch located near the entrance to the bathroom.
· Small electrical appliances such as hair dryers, shavers, curling irons unplugged when not in use?
· Are all medications stored in original containers and clearly labeled?
· Clean out medicine cabinet periodically.
· No cleaning products or any potentially dangerous substances stored in medicine cabinet?
· Medications and hazardous substances should be stored up and out of reach of children.

Bedroom

· Lamps and light switches within easy reach of the bed.
· Ashtrays, smoking materials or other fire sources (heaters, hot plates, etc.) located away from beds and bedding.
· Is there a telephone close to the bed with emergency numbers posted?

Furnace

· Chimney and heating system checked frequently.
· Are there any unusually warm or discolored areas on walls or ceilings near the furnace or chimney?
· Any cracked or rusted areas on the furnace?
· Is the water heater in good condition? Space Heaters?
· Are heaters which come with a 3-prong plug being used in a 3-hole outlet, or with a properly attached adapter?
· Are small stoves and heaters placed where they can not be knocked over, and away from furnishings and flammable materials, such as curtains or rugs?
· Do all electric space heaters automatically shut off if they are tipped?

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