Your home is your sanctuary. However, you are not completely safe inside your home. Sometimes, accidents happen that may lead to injuries or death.
Although you cannot predict the future, there are some things that you can do to minimise the risk of getting hurt inside your home. Here are the most common accidents and how you can avoid them:
House Fire
A house fire is a disaster that can cause the loss of property and lives. In the United Kingdom, over 200 people die from a house fire every year.
Most often, a house fire is caused by faulty or misuse of electrical equipment. To prevent a tragedy from happening, inspect your appliances routinely to find a worn or frayed cord. If you find damage, immediately get it repaired. A worn or frayed cord can send heat to items that are combustible like your carpet.
It is also important to get electrical installations inspected by a professional electrician. A company like Prop Cert will send someone who is qualified to do an assessment into your home and issue Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR). An EICR is recommended if you are buying/selling your home or you have been living in your home for more than a decade.
In addition, equip your smoke detector with a fresh set of batteries.
Falls
Another common cause of injuries at home is falls. Falling inside or outside of one’s home can cause broken bones and other serious injuries.
Although anyone is at risk, those who are 65 years old and above are more vulnerable. According to the National Health Services, one in three seniors who live at home will have at least one fall per year and need medical attention.
You can take precautions by using non-slip mats in the bathroom, especially if you live with the elderly. When you see spilled liquid, you should immediately wipe or mop it. Remove clutter off the floor.
Falling Objects
Falling objects around the house can also lead to injuries. For example, if your child or dog accidentally knocks off your television screen or a bookshelf. If the item is not secured properly. It could fall and hurt you.
Outside factors such as a tree pulled out off its roots by a strong wind may also lead to injuries and damage to properties.
Inside your home, you can prevent falling objects by making sure that everything that you keep on top of cabinets and shelves is stable and secure. If a tree no longer stands upright, it might be safer to cut it down ahead of a big storm.
Cuts and Burns
Being around sharp knives and fire presents new risks. Whenever you cook, if you are not being careful, you may get injuries.
The best thing to do to prevent any injuries is to be careful. Watch what you are doing and where you are going.
Poisoning
Your house is filled with dangerous chemicals that should never be ingested. Soaps, bleach, and other household products can cause poisoning.
If you have a small child at home, it is important that you keep cleaning materials on top of shelves that they cannot reach or hidden inside cabinets that they would not be able to open. If they accidentally ingested a poisonous chemical, call an ambulance immediately.
No one wants to be involved in an accident, but it may happen no matter how careful you may be. Following these tips will minimise the risks of injuries at home.
