Seniors & Special Needs: Safety Checklist

How Safe Are You? Yes, We're Safe Needs Action
SMOKE DETECTORS
There is at least one on every floor.
There is one in every sleeping area.
Each detector is cleaned and tested monthly.
Each detector's battery has been changed within the year.
FALL PREVENTION
Doors, hallways and stairs clear of obstruction.
Lamp and telephone cords out of the flow of traffic?
All small rugs and runners slip resistant?
Is the kitchen, hallways and stairs well lit?
Bathtubs and showers equipped with non-skid mats, abrasive strips or surfaces that are not slippery?
Rubber floor mats located in front of stove and sink?
Handrails are fastened securely on both sides of stairways and do they run continuously from top to bottom?
Do all stairway steps allow secure footing?
BE SAFE IN THE KITCHEN
Are short or close fitting sleeves worn when cooking?
When cooking, are potholders used?
Are cleaning agents and food kept in separate locations?
Is the water temperature 120 degrees or lower?
BE SAFE IN THE BEDROOM
Are light switches or a lamp located next to bed?
Is there a telephone and are emergency numbers located close to the bed?
Are hot liquids and other heat sources kept away from bed?
Are NO SMOKING IN BED rules observed?
Are hot liquids and other heat sources kept away from bed?

Your answer to all of these questions should be YES!