Our home is where we feel safe, as we should be, but it is also high on the list of a place to have “accidents”. We cannot, on this page, inform you as to how to treat them all.
Here are some areas to consider.
Some home accidents happen because enthusiasm takes over from ability, mainly in DIY.
Ladders and steps should be fit for purpose and only that purpose and knowing how to use them. Keep access areas clear. Keep work areas clear.
If a tool is meant to be sharp, keep it sharp or throw it away. Don’t use a tool for something it was not designed to do.
Always allow a tool to stop before any next step. If it jams, unplug before any work on it.
Make sure there is ventilation when working with items that require it.
For any reason, is there a planned exit route that everyone knows. Is it kept clear.
In the kitchen are many areas of thought.
Learn how to use any new gadget.
Always allow a tool to stop before any next step.
Not leaving sharp objects around particularly if children are in the area.
Have short or curly flexes on toasters, kettles etc.
Keep pan handles turned in.
Use the back burners when children are around.
Do not leave hot liquids near work top, table or cooker edges.
Not having babies in arms when cooking.
Small step stools for children can be a large problem.
Always put cold water in the sink (or bath) first and top up with hot, particularly when children are around.
Keeping work areas free of clutter.
Slips, trips and falls can happen anywhere, remember, falling doesn’t usually hurt it’s the sudden stop at the bottom and what you land on that causes the problem.
Keep walk areas clear.
Stairs should have hand rails, make sure they are secure and can be held securely.
Any outside hand rails should be well maintained.
Don’t over reach when cleaning. Keep cupboard doors closed, you could have been looking in a lower cupboard and stand up hitting the upper cupboard door.
The garden should be a place to enjoy and relax, usually following maintenance.
Learn how to use the tools, do not use a tool for something it was not designed for.
There are lots of sharp tools, keep them sharp or throw it away.
Wear appropriate footwear, not flip flops etc.
Always allow a tool to stop before any next step. If it becomes jammed, unplug it before working on it.
Use eye protection when cutting hedges etc.
A barbecue should be treated with respect. It should be placed in a safe place away from any overhanging vegetation, wooden fences etc. It should have and be on a firm base and not have liquid fuel sprayed onto it.
All the tools should have long handles and the person doing the cooking should have relative protection, gloves etc.
A bit of thought can save a visit to A&E taking any enjoyment away from a place where we should feel safe. The above is to help stimulate thought and is not comprehensive.
We can teach you what to do in an emergency so that we can leave A & E to deal with life threatening incidents and emergencies. Contact Life Saving Solutions Limited for our range of courses.