Home Safety Hazards for Homeowners

Accidents at home can be deadly, but many of them can be avoided. For those who are new to home ownership and who want to keep their home safe, especially if they are considering selling their home in the near future, these tips can help people avoid accidents in various rooms around the house.

Fire

Around 7,000 residential fires occur per year in Canada, and the death rate in these fires is approximately 1%. Fires can be caused by many things including electrical problems, problems with fireplaces and ovens, lit cigarettes and lit candles.

Although there are many ways that homeowners can protect themselves from residential fires, perhaps most important is to keep operational smoke detectors in every room of the house.

Smoke detectors expire, so homeowners must look for the expiration dates on their unit. Smoke detectors also need their batteries replaced annually. Homeowners can ensure that their smoke detectors are still working by testing their smoke detectors quarterly.

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is an odorless invisible gas that can cause brain damage or even death. Carbon monoxide detectors can be used to alert homeowners to the presence of carbon monoxide in the air. Carbon monoxide occurs because of combustion. Appliances that burn fuel, like stoves, dryers and water heaters can all be a source of carbon monoxide.

Homeowners must maintain their carbon monoxide detectors much like their smoke detectors. The batteries must be replaced annually, and the units should be tested quarterly. Carbon monoxide detectors also expire, and must be replaced by their expiration date to ensure functionality.

Slips and Falls

Slips and falls happen all over the house, but the greatest risk is usually in the bathroom, kitchen, and in rooms where slippery tiles are present. Many homeowners can protect themselves from this problem by installing non-slip tiles and by using non-slip rugs.

In homes where seniors and small children are present, slips and falls are an even greater risk. Seniors can help protect themselves from slips and falls by installing grab bars in the bathroom near the toilet and in the shower. Parents can protect their small children from slips and falls by putting up gates around stairs, and by installing carpeting.

If you're a Ravenswood homeowner who would like to ensure that your home is a safe environment, take steps to protect yourself from fires, carbon monoxide and from slips and falls. This can help keep you and other members of your household safe.