SAFETY FOR OLDER ADULTS
Fall & Injury Prevention
Fall Safety
Remove boxes, newspapers, electrical cords and phone cords from walkways and stairs. Move coffee tables and magazine racks and plant stands from walkways.
Bathroom Fall Safety
Use nonslip mats in your bathtub or shower; consider using a bath seat. Install grab bars in your shower and tub.
Exercise, Check Vision to Prevent Falls
To prevent falls, exercise to stay strong and have your vision checked.
Remove or Tape Down Loose Rugs
Remove or tape down loose rugs.
Use Night Lights to Prevent Falls
Place night lights between your bedroom and the bathroom.
Turn On Lights Before Using the Stairs
Turn on lights before using the stairs.
Have Handrails on Both Sides of Stairways
Maker sure you have handrails on both sides of stairways, porches, patios, decking etc.
Vehicle Safety
It's important to act quickly if a vehicle catches fire. Burning vehicles can quickly trap occupants. Mechanical and electrical issues, along with crashes, are common causes of vehicle fires.
If your vehicle catches fire
Pull over as quickly as you can when it is safe.
If you think there is a fire under the hood or trunk, do not open it. This could cause the fire to grow.
Once you have stopped, turn off the engine.
Move everyone at least 100 feet from the burning vehicle and well away from traffic.
Get everyone out of the vehicle. Never return to a burning vehicle. Do not try to fight the fire yourself.
Call 911.
To prevent a vehicle fire
Have your vehicle serviced regularly by a trained mechanic.
Drive safely to avoid an accident.
Keep gas cans or propane tanks away from passengers. Tightly seal and place them on a flat surface to make sure they stay upright.
Keep windows open to stop fumes from building up if you must put gas cans or propane tanks inside your vehicle.