By Ellis Booker
Last month, we looked at the general principles of home safety. Here, in Part 2, we'll cover safety considerations for children and seniors, two of the most vulnerable populations when it comes to home accidents.
Children are curious and explorative, while seniors may have physical limitations that make them more susceptible to falls and accidents.
Children
Poisonings are a common danger for children, especially those under the age of 6. Unintentional poisonings resulted in 82,600 deaths in 2021, according to the National Safety Council. Here are some tips to help prevent poisonings in your home:
• Keep all medications and household chemicals out of reach of children. This includes cleaning products, pesticides, and gardening supplies.
• Store medications in their original containers. This will help to prevent children from accidentally taking the wrong medication.
• Use child-proof cabinets and latches to keep dangerous products out of reach.
• Be aware of poisonous plants. If you have any poisonous plants in your home, keep them out of reach of children and pets.
• Teach children about the dangers of poison. Explain to them that they should never put anything in their mouth without asking an adult first.
Here are some additional tips for preventing poisonings in children:
• Be aware of the dangers of lead poisoning. Lead poisoning can cause serious health problems in children, including learning disabilities and behavioral problems. If you live in an older home, have it tested for lead paint.
• Be careful when using pesticides and other chemicals in your home. Always follow the directions on the label and store these products out of reach of children.
Seniors
According to the National Safety Council, falls accounted for 29,100 deaths in 2021, and are the leading cause of injury-related deaths among older adults. (They can be a serious risk for children too.) Here are some changes you can make in your home to help prevent falls:
• Remove tripping hazards. This includes clutter, loose cords, and throw rugs. Make sure all walkways are well-lit and unobstructed.
• Install grab bars and handrails in the bathroom. This can help seniors and children get in and out of the tub or shower safely.
• Add non-slip treads to stairs. This can help prevent slips and falls.
• Make sure all furniture is stable and secure. Anchor dressers and bookcases to the wall to prevent them from tipping over.
• Use nightlights in bedrooms, hallways, and bathrooms. This can help prevent falls in the dark.
In addition to these changes, consider these steps:
• Encourage seniors to get regular exercise. This can help to improve their balance and strength.
• Have seniors' vision and hearing checked regularly. This can help to identify and address any problems that could increase their risk of falls.
• Make sure seniors are taking any necessary medications. This can help to prevent dizziness and other side effects that could lead to falls.
• Encourage seniors to wear comfortable, non-slip shoes.
