Fall Prevention: Three Simple Steps

Step 1: Spot the Hazard

Is there anything in or around your home that may cause you or others to lose your footing or balance?

Answer True (T) or False (F)

• The front steps and walkways leading to my home are in good repair.
• My stairs/walkways are free of snow/ice/leaves and surfaces provide good traction.
• My front entrance is well lit.
• My stairs are well lit and free from clutter.
• I have light switches located at the top and bottom of my stairways.
• I have night lights in my hallways.
• My workroom and laundry room are well lit.
• I don't use rugs and scatter mats.
• I keep heavy items in low cupboards.
• Items I use most often are in easy-to-reach locations.
• There is a clear path from my bed to the bathroom.
• My work area is well ventilated.
• I have a stable step stool with a safety rail for reaching high places.
• I only use a ladder that is safe and in good repair.

Items answered with an "F" should be assessed.

Step 2: Assess the Risk

Can I get rid of the hazard or use something safer? Can I repair it, change it or move it to make it more safe?

Strategies to Consider - Answer Yes (Y) or No (N)

• Do I have shoes with slippery soles that I must discard?
• Can floor covering hazards be repaired, or should they be replaced?
• Are there areas where I should replace old, badly scuffed carpet or linoleum to make it safer?
• Are there slippery mats under which I should place slip-proof strips?
• Are there rugs and scatter mats that should be discarded or moved from high traffic areas or from the top of stairways?
• Is there a slip-proof mat in my shower or bath, and other wet areas?
• Can all my walkways be made slip and trip-proof?
• Do I require handrails in showers and toilets?
• Are there items blocking defined walkways?
• Can I improve the light around my stairs and hallways?
• Can I make steps more obvious by painting a strip of contrasting or bright colour on the edge of each step or on the top and bottom step?
• Do I have handrails on all steps and raised verandahs?

Step 3: Make Changes Quickly

Do what is required to reduce or eliminate the hazard as soon as possible. The longer you ignore the hazard the less of a hazard it appears to be BUT the more dangerous it becomes!

Don't be Afraid to Ask For Help!