Between social distancing practices and the change of seasons, we’re all likely to be spending a lot of time at home these days. We all know the importance of safety on the job site, but we can also take important steps to mitigate hazards in our homes. Regular home safety inspections and awareness are key to ensuring a safe environment for your off-hours and family time.
As you perform a home safety inspection, here are some suggestions to ensure your safety and that of your family members.
| Make sure to: |
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| Always have on hand sturdy step stools to use when reaching for things in closets or the top kitchen cabinets. Don’t use kitchen chairs or climb on cabinets. |
| Consider adding non-slip mats in your bathroom to avoid slipping after a shower. |
| Keep chimneys and dryer exhausts free of flammable buildup by cleaning them regularly. |
| Install and maintain smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home and check the batteries often to make sure they are working properly. |
| Keep fire extinguishers in common areas like the kitchen, near the fireplace, and near other sources of heat. |
| Ask yourself: |
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| If you have a second floor, do you have an escape ladder in case of fire? |
| Are electrical cords on household items and extension cords used outdoors in good condition? |
| Do you have GFCI protection on receptacles where water may be present – bathrooms, kitchen, outdoors? |
| Are tools in good condition with guards in place? |
| Do you have PPE on hand for work around the house like safety glasses and ear plugs or muffs for mowing, weed-eating, or using power tools? Chaps for chainsaws? |