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Electrical Safety

• Cords should not be placed underneath furniture or rugs.
• Replace frayed cords.
• Extension cords should not be overloaded.
• Do not use multiple adapters on electrical outlets.
• Safety covers should be used in empty outlets when children are present.
• Electrical appliances should be unplugged when not in use.
• Electrical appliances should be grounded as needed.

• Install smoke detectors on all levels of your home.
• Inspect all fire extinguishers on a regular basis.
• Change batteries in smoke detectors on a regular basis.
• Develop a plan to evacuate your home in case of fire.
• Develop a plan to evacuate handicapped or bed bound family members.
• Keep hallways and doorways clear.
• Do not leave food cooking unattended for long periods.
• Chimneys should be inspected and cleaned on a regular basis.
• Do not leave fireplaces, wood stoves, electrical or kerosene heaters unattended.
• Use care around stoves, use back burners first and turn pot handles in.
• Keep matches, candles and lighters out of children's reach.

• Keep stairs and hallways clutter free.
• Stairways should have sturdy handrails.
• Use gates to keep infants/toddlers away from stairs.

• Have at least one accessible phone in the event of an emergency.
• Establish an emergency contact outside of your home to be the contact person in the event of an emergency.
• Emergency numbers should be posted near the phone.

• Loose rugs and runners should be secured to the floor.
• Carpet edges should be tacked down.
• Torn, frayed carpet should be replaced or removed.

• Store frequently used items on lower shelves
• Store heavy items on low shelves to avoid injuries from falling objects.
• Use a sturdy step stool to reach items in high places.
• All cleaning supplies, knives, poisons and medicines must be stored out of reach of children or in a locked cabinet.

• Showers and tubs need to have textured surfaces to prevent slipping.
• Grab bars in tubs and shower stalls help prevent falls.
• Check water temperature for small children and adjust water heaters if needed (115 degrees is recommended).
• Place a nightlight in the bathroom.
• Never leave children unattended in the bathtub; children can drown in as little as 1 inch of water.

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