How to Make a Home Hazard-Free

A hazard-free home can be achieved with simple routines or additions. It is important to make these changes in order to keep you, your family and your guests safe in and around your home. There are many things you can do to make your home safer; but these main steps will give you a head-start towards a hazard-free home.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Fix peeling paint if you live in an older home or apartment. Lead paint chips, peels or dust, if consumed, can cause lead poisoning, which is particularly dangerous for young children.

2. Lock guns in a gun safe. Guns should be stored unloaded and the ammunition should be stored in a different location.

3. Check your smoke alarms periodically and change the batteries once every six months. A good way to remember this chore, is to change the batteries every time you set you clocks ahead or behind.

4. Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen for emergencies. You should make sure that everyone in the house of appropriate age knows where the fire extinguisher is and how to use it.

5. Repair broken concrete on outside sidewalks and stairs. You don't want guests or your children tripping and falling outside your home.

6. Lay flooring in attic spaces that you use for storage. It is easier than you think to come through the ceiling after slipping off the rafters.

7. Hire an exterminator to check your home on a yearly basis for termites or other pest problems. Insects, if left alone, can cause serious damage to your home, even making it unsafe for you and your family.

Tips & Warnings

• Unplug appliances like toasters and coffee makers when not in use. These items can cause fires, even when not being used.
• You should also update old electrical outlets and wiring to prevent house fires.