Make Your Home a Safer Place

When you're riding in a car, you wear a seatbelt, just to be safe. When you're riding a bike, you wear a helmet. But what could possibly happen in your own home? A lot, if you aren't prepared.

Now is as good a time as any to look around your house liar problems that could lead to unsafe conditions. Make an effort to be aware of dangers in your home and take steps to fix the situation. (This family needs a lot of help.)

Start in the front yard. Is the yard clear of litter, tools, toys, holes and other objects that anyone could trip over? If not, take a few minutes to tidy things up. Be sure to read tip on how to properly dispose of dangerous chemicals such as antifreeze or insecticides.

Next, move in for a closer inspection. Are railings, banisters and steps in good condition? Stairways with three Or more steps should have a good, solid handrail. In winter, are sidewalks, walkways and driveways free of ice and snow?

On some days, there's going to be a lot of activity in your yard. Some of these activities require equipment such as lawn mowers, trimmers and other power tools. Make sure these tools are operated safely (as detailed in their instructions) and make sure they're properly stored when not in use.

Now turn the page for some ideas of what to look for inside yore house.

Scouts whose Hoops choose next month's suggested program theme, Safety, will learn how to make their homes safer, while also learning how to be safe on camp-outs and other Scout outings.


General Safety Tips

One smoke detector installed in each bedroom, one in the garage

Window screens are securely fastened

Shoes worn for housework are in good condition

Fire extinguishers are readily available

HOME SAFE HOME

Do your family a favor and make sure your house is as safe as it can be. Use our checklist to get started.

Kid's Bedroom

Sturdy screens are on each window

Floor is free of toys and clutter

Nontoxic paint is used on all furniture

Office

Power strip is used

Frayed electrical cords are replaced

Cords do not stretch across walking areas

Living Room/Dining Room

Fireplace screen fits snugly

Rugs are kept from curling at their edges

Floor is free of toys and other clutter

Escape Plan

Fires in homes often happen at night when everyone's asleep. The way to avoid injury is to get away quickly, and the best way to get away quickly is to have a plan. Sit down with your family and look at a drawing of your house. Make sure everybody knows the escape route from each room. Then come up with a backup plan in case the fire were to prevent you from using the first plan.

Bathroom

Medicines are labeled and stored out of the reach of children

Wet spots are cleaned up promptly

Tub/shower has sturdy handholds

Master Bedroom

Properly installed carbon monoxide tester

Lamp is within reach of the bed

Dresser drawers are closed when not in use

Kitchen

Knives and other sharp instruments are stored out of the reach of children

Lye, disinfectants and cleaning products are stored away

Pan handles are turned away from stove edges

Fire extinguisher is stored near the stove

By: Derr, Aaron, Boys' Life, Aug2006