Are you really safe in your own home? Falls and fires are two leading causes of unintentional injuries and deaths among adults 65 and older. Complete this handy checklist to address any safety concerns that you may have in your home.

Nearly two-thirds of all hospital emergency room visits by older people involve falls.

To help prevent falls:

• Walkways are well lit and clear of furniture and clutter.
• Floors are cleared and slip resistant.
• Remove any loose carpet, cords and other items you could trip over.
• Remove throw rugs and replace them with non-skid mats.
• Select rugs with non-frayed edges and tack down corners.
• Stepping stools should have a top handrail and should be used only if someone is there to help you.
• Stairs have handrails and are well lit.
• Bathroom is equipped with grab bars and other needed bath aids.
• Bathroom surfaces (floors, and shower floors) are slip-resistant.
• Wear shoes, both indoor and outdoor, that have slip resistant soles.

Older adults have a higher death rate from fires than the general population. Make your home safer by following these tips.

To help prevent fire deaths and injuries:

• Check to make sure electrical outlet covers are in place. If they are warm to the touch, unplug whatever is in use and have the outlet checked by an electrician.
• Install a smoke alarm in every bedroom, outside every sleeping area, and on every floor of your home.
• Replace batteries in smoke detectors. A good way to remember this is to change your batteries when you change the time on your clocks in the spring and fall.
• Do not smoke in bed.
• Keep space heaters away from flammable materials. Hire a professional to check all fuel-burning appliances, including fireplaces, every year.
• Don’t wear loose-fitting clothing with long sleeves near ranges, ovens, fireplace, or any source that has an open flame.
• Store combustibles away from these and all heat-producing appliances.
• Practice an emergency fire escape plan.

Other safety tips are:

• Be sure your telephones and emergency numbers are easily accessible.
• Medications are labeled and expired medicines are disposed of properly.
• Frequently used items are positioned at a convenient height for easy reach (medication, telephone, food, kitchen utensils, etc.).
• Install a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm outside every sleeping area. Replace the batteries twice a year, in the spring and fall, just as you do your smoke detectors.