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INJURIES ARE NO ACCIDENT
THINK SAFETY

AT HOME:

• Keep emergency numbers near all telephones.
• Place smoke detectors near kitchen and bedrooms and check batteries once a year (for example, on your birthday).
• Secure scatter rugs, steps, floor boards and tiles.
• Secure railings and bannisters.
• Have adequate lighting in stairways, hallways, entryways, kitchen and bath.
• Clear obstacles from stairways, hallways, entryways.
• Secure windows and doors with easy-to–use locks.
• Repair frayed electrical cords and appliances.
• Stand on a sturdy step stool and never on chairs, boxes or makeshift items.
• Ventilate all rooms.
• Keep flashlights, batteries and bulbs handy.
• Wear shoes that have non-slippery soles

IN THE BATHROOM:

• Place non-skid mats in bathtub and shower.
• Place a grab bar next to toilet, bathtub and shower.
• Use night lights.

IN THE KITCHEN:

• Wear short or tight sleeves while cooking.
• Keep flammables away from the stove.
• Place heavy pots and appliances on low shelves.
• Keep fire extinguisher or baking soda handy to fight grease fires.
• Never heat your home with stove or oven.
• Open the windows if you smell gas, then make sure all pilots lights are on and control knobs are off.
• Call gas company if gas smell remains.

Community and Home Injury Prevention Project for Seniors (CHIPPS), a program in the Community Health Education Section, can be reached at: 415-581-2415