All articles tagged with #home safety
An expert advises unplugging high‑draw or heat‑producing devices when you’re away to reduce fire risk. The seven to unplug are space heaters, air fryers, portable AC units, hair tools, older coffee makers, lamps/old cords, and toasters; low‑draw electronics like monitors, phone chargers, TVs and alarm clocks can stay plugged in if cords and outlets are in good shape.
Indoor falls are the biggest risk, especially for older adults, but many can be prevented. A review of 22 studies found removing common hazards can cut falls by up to 38%, and additional steps include strengthening balance, decluttering and securing rugs, installing rails or a raised toilet seat, moving frequently used items to eye level, improving lighting (with night lights), and avoiding multitasking while moving. For personalized guidance, consider an occupational-therapy home visit or referrals to home-hazard programs and simple aids like rug tape and rubber-backed mats.
A NYT Wirecutter guide distills aging-well into practical, affordable home habits: stay moderately active daily, include strength or resistance training (or bands), and invest in supportive footwear and simple balance tools; boost safety with rug pads, grab bars, and better lighting; make easy, plant-based meals with handy appliances like an Instant Pot; and incorporate mood-boosting touches (a pride shrine) and ergonomic work setups. The core idea is to achieve better health and independence through small, consistent daily choices rather than drastic lifestyle overhauls.
As winter storms approach, experts urge homeowners to fill their bathtubs with water to ensure a ready supply if pipes freeze and cut off the water; bathwater isn’t ideal for drinking, but can be boiled or purified for safety, and is useful for bathing, cleaning and flushing toilets during outages, alongside tips on identifying and thawing frozen pipes and general winter preparedness.
A new small plug-in gadget has been developed to help prevent electrical fires in homes, enhancing safety and reducing fire risks.
To prevent pipes from freezing during a cold snap in Alabama and the Southeast, it is recommended to drain or cover exposed pipes, keep cabinet doors open, drip faucets, and consider insulation or heating products. If pipes freeze, shut off the main water valve and thaw carefully with a hair dryer or space heater.
Falls are a major risk for seniors but are largely preventable through regular exercise, such as balance and strength training, and simple home safety modifications like removing tripping hazards and installing handrails. Staying active and making small environmental changes can help seniors maintain independence and reduce injury risk.
Falls among Mainers aged 65 and older have increased dramatically over the past decade, with mortality rates rising by 165%, likely due to factors such as fewer residential facilities, aging infrastructure, and mobility issues. Experts emphasize the importance of home modifications, health assessments, and community resources to prevent falls and related injuries among seniors.
The article reviews eight smart home gadgets that the author has tested and recommends, including a highly rated video doorbell, reliable smart bulbs, a compact smart plug, a facial recognition smart lock, and a sensor for detecting electrical issues, emphasizing their ease of use, security features, and how they enhance home automation and safety.
Using extension cords for high-powered appliances like air fryers, microwaves, space heaters, toasters, refrigerators, and AC units is dangerous and can cause fires. These appliances should always be plugged directly into wall outlets to prevent overloads and hazards.
Using extension cords with high-power appliances like air fryers, microwaves, space heaters, toasters, refrigerators, and AC units is dangerous and can cause fires or malfunctions. These devices should be plugged directly into dedicated wall outlets to ensure safety.
The article reviews a comprehensive first aid kit available on Amazon for $19.94, highlighting its extensive contents and positive user experiences, emphasizing the importance of having such a kit at home for emergencies.
The article reviews eight top smart home gadgets, including a highly recommended video doorbell, reliable smart bulbs, a compact smart plug, a facial recognition smart lock, and a sensor for detecting electrical issues, emphasizing their features, reliability, and how they enhance home automation and security.
Falls among older adults have increased significantly over the past 20 years, leading to high costs and health risks. Prevention strategies include home modifications, regular health assessments, exercise to improve strength and balance, and technology aids. Public health efforts are underway to improve fall prevention and safety awareness among seniors.
The article highlights three warning signs of a carbon monoxide leak: virus-like symptoms that improve outdoors, pets showing unusual behavior, and the alarm going off. It emphasizes the importance of proper detector installation and maintenance, and suggests using smart alarms with app alerts for enhanced safety.