Smart Ideas for Safe Homes

SAFETY PROBLEMS SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS
Check for electrical hazards

Outlets and switches
OK
Improvments needed

bullet.gif (356 bytes) Unplug cords from outlets when not in use.
bullet.gif (356 bytes) Have electrician check wiring if outlets and switches feel warm to touch.

Electrical appliances
OK
Improvments needed

bullet.gif (356 bytes) Unplug small appliances when not in use.
bullet.gif (356 bytes) Install ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) in bathroom and kitchen to avoid shock if an appliance drops in water.

Cords
OK
Improvments needed

bullet.gif (356 bytes) Replace or repair frayed or cracked cords with electrical tape.
bullet.gif (356 bytes) Remove cords from underneath rugs or furniture.
bullet.gif (356 bytes) Attach cords to walls with tape or special cover, never staples or nails.
Check for poisoning hazards

Poisoning
OK
Improvments needed

bullet.gif (356 bytes) Store cleaning supplies, medicine, and other poisons away from food items.
bullet.gif (356 bytes) Store prescription and non-prescription medicines in their original containers.
bullet.gif (356 bytes) Use magnifier or write instructions in large, dark print on medicines, poisons, and cleaning supplies.
bullet.gif (356 bytes) Keep medicines stored out of children's reach.

Protective clothing
OK
Improvments needed

bullet.gif (356 bytes) Read warning labels to know what clothes should be worn to prevent absorption of poisons through skin.
bullet.gif (356 bytes) Discard heavily soiled or chemically soaked clothing.
bullet.gif (356 bytes) Wash clothes and wear clean clothes everyday.
bullet.gif (356 bytes) Wear chemical resistant gloves when handling clothes.
bullet.gif (356 bytes) Wash pesticide soaked clothes separately and rinse washer by running a complete cycle before washing family clothes.
bullet.gif (356 bytes) Pre-rinse and run washer through longest cycle with highest water level and strong detergent.

Carbon Monoxide
OK
Improvments needed

bullet.gif (356 bytes) Place carbon monoxide detector in an area near bedrooms. Carbon monoxide is dangerous because it is colorless, odorless, and tasteless.
Plan for emergencies

Emergency plans
OK
Improvments needed

bullet.gif (356 bytes) Install phones throughout house or carry portable phone in pocket.
bullet.gif (356 bytes) Locate phones so they can be reached from bed or chair.
bullet.gif (356 bytes) Pre-program phones with emergency numbers or list them in large print near each phone.
bullet.gif (356 bytes) Make sure that all family members know who to call in case of emergencies.
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Prepared by Rachel Huntoon, Laura Brandt and Mary H. Yearns, Iowa State University Extension, for Easter Seal's FaRM (Farm Family Rehabilitation Management) Program.
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