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FALL PREVENTION

To avoid falls at home:
  • Keep traffic areas clear. Be sure people can walk through without walking around or squeezing past obstacles and furniture.

  • Keep rooms neat. Pick up toys, books, magazines and other clutter from the floor. Wipe up spills immediately.

  • Install light switches at each end of all stairways and long halls so you aren't forced to walk in the dark. Equip all stairs, even short ones, with secure handrails.

  • Repair any frayed or worn edges on rugs and other floor coverings. Choose area rugs that have slip-resistant backings.

  • Run electrical cords along the walls and away from traffic areas. Make sure any exposed cords are taped down securely.

  • Skid-proof your bathtub or shower stall with a slip-resistant rubber mat or adhesive safety strips or decals. Install grab bars on walls next to tubs and stalls.

  • Close cabinets and drawers when you're not using them.

  • Wear well-fitting shoes and slippers with non-skid bottoms.

  • Use light switches. You can't avoid what you can't see.

  • Don't carry loads that block your vision. Instead, make several trips with smaller loads.

  • Use a sturdy step stool or stepladder to reach items on high shelves. Don't climb on countertops, chairs, tables or other pieces of furniture.

  • Don't hurry. Move deliberately.


Acknowledgments:
National Safety Council
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention