Home Safety Checklist Summary 

• Can you turn on a light without having to walk into a dark room?
• Are all lamp, extensions and/or phone cords out of the flow of foot traffic?
• Are passageways free from objects and clutter (papers, furniture)?
• Are curtains and furniture at least 12 inches from baseboard or portable heaters?
• Do your carpets lie flat?
• Do your small rugs and runners stay put (don't slide or roll up) when you push them with your foot? It is best to remove them all together.
• Are your stove controls easy to see and use?
• Do you keep loose fitting clothing, towels, and curtains that may catch fire away from the burners and oven?
• Do you have a step stool that is sturdy and in good repair?
• Do you have working smoke detectors and ceiling outside your bedroom door?
• Do you have a lamp or light switch within easy reach of your bed?
• Is a light left on a night between your bed and the toilet?
• Does your shower or tub have a non-skid surface: mat, decals, or abrasive strips?
• Does the tub/shower have a sturdy grab bar? (not towel rack)
• Is your hot water temperature 120 degrees or lower?
• Does your floor have a non-slip surface or does the rug have a non-skid backing
• Is there a light switch at both the top and bottom of inside stairs?
• With the light on, can you clearly see the outline of each step as you go down the stairs
• Do all stairways have sturdy handrails on both sides?
• Do handrails run the full length of the stairs, slightly beyond the steps?
• Are all steps in good repair (not loose, broken, missing or worn in places)?
• Are stair coverings (rugs, treads) in good repair, without holes and not, loose, torn or worn?
• Do all entrances to your home have outdoor lights?
• Are walkways to your entry free from cracks or holes?
• Do you have an emergency exit plan in case of fire?
• Do you have an emergency phone numbers listed by your phone? Friends, neighbors, relatives?
• Are the other hazards or unsafe areas in your home not mentioned in this checklist that you are concerned about? If so, what?