How To Prevent Falls At Home

#AskJeremyDiamond

Most people like to think of their home as being a safe place, but statistics released by the government prove otherwise when it comes to falls and the serious injuries they can cause. Falls are the leading cause of children ages nine and younger being admitted to the hospital. For older adults living in Ontario, falls are particularly dangerous and account for more than 100,000 emergency department visits and 20,000 hospital admissions annually. There are steps you can take to make your home a safer place and prevent falls from occurring.

Keep yourself physically fit

Annual physical examinations become even more important as you get older. Discuss with your doctor any difficulties you might be having maintaining your balance while walking or standing. When prescription medications are ordered by your doctor, ask about possible side effects, such as dizziness or light-headedness.

Engage in some form of physical exercise on a regular basis to help with balance and flexibility. Ask your doctor to recommend exercises based upon your current fitness level.

Safety in the bathroom

Any water spilling onto the floor should be cleaned up right away to prevent someone from slipping and falling. Hot water running in a shower or tub can cause moisture to accumulate on cooler surfaces, including floors, so use a mop or towel to dry them before walking on them.

Bathtubs and showers should have a non-slip surface and a safety bar securely attached to the wall to help steady you as you enter or exit. Grab bars should also be installed near toilets in homes where there are older adults.

Bedroom and living room hazards to avoid

Get rid of wires and extension cords running along the floor. Children’s toys, clothing, shoes and other objects left on the floor should be picked up and put away where they cannot pose a risk for anyone walking.

Rugs and mats should have a non-skid backing to prevent them from sliding when someone steps on them. All rooms in the home should have adequate lighting so people can see where they are going and any obstacles that might be in their path.

Keep your kitchen safe

Any spills should be cleaned up immediately to prevent them from becoming a hazard for someone walking in the kitchen. When cooking greasy foods, wipe the floor area by the stove where grease and oil can splatter and cause the floor to become slippery.

Store items you use on a daily or regular basis where they are within easy reach. If you do have to use a step stool, make certain it is stable and is tall enough to give you something to hold and steady yourself while on it.

Avoid falls on stairs

Stairs should be equipped with secure handrails. Lighting should be installed to illuminate the steps and the landing areas. When climbing or going down stairs, do not wear reading glasses that can make it difficult to see.

Keeping the outside of your home safe

The outside of your home should not be forgotten when you eliminating hazards. Some of the things to look out for include:

  • Garden hoses left on the ground
  • Lawn tools left on the lawn or on walkways
  • Broken cement sidewalks
  • Loose bricks in paths and sidewalks
  • Remove snow and ice from stairs and walkways

You should also make certain that front and rear entrances to your home and the pathways leading to them are well lit.

Personal injury lawyers for fall injury claims

If you are injured in a fall, you could be entitled to compensation from the property owner where it happened. The personal injury lawyers at Diamond & Diamond are ready to assist you with skilled and knowledgeable advice and representation. Don’t delay, contact our 24/7 injury hotline at 1-800-567-HURT or visit our website to speak to someone now about your claim. Consultations are free, and we have offices located throughout Ontario.