GENERAL

Remove scatter rugs to avoid falls. Remove clutter to avoid risk of fire hazard. Avoid “octopus” plugs and overloading electrical outlets. Don’t stretch electrical cords or allow them to lie in traffic areas. Keep all medicines in original containers, store out of reach of children. Post emergency numbers and keep phone in an accessible location.

STAIRS/RAMPS

Stairs and ramps within or outside the home can present a risk of falling for patients. All ramps and stairs should have non-slip surface (i.e., textured strips, and carpeting). All should have handrails in place. Keep stairs clear of objects that could cause falls. Stairways should be well lit. Use child safety gates at top and bottom of stairs.

KITCHEN

Use a chair to prevent fatigue when possible in doing kitchen work. Place items used in cooking in easy reach to lesson reaching and bending. Use pot holders or insulated mitts for handling hot items. Avoid loose clothing (i.e., flowing sleeves, scarves) when using stove to prevent risk of burns. Turn pot handles inward and use back burners. Keep high chairs and stools away from stove. Keep sharp objects out of reach. Use caution with hot fluids and test food temperature before consuming. Never warm formula in the microwave oven.

BATHROOMS

Use non-slip carpets/rugs to prevent falls on wet floor. Use mats or non-slip strips in tub. Keep hot water temperature 120 degrees or less to prevent burns. Leave light on at night to lesson risk of falls. Consider grab bars and/or raised toilet seats for weakened patients. Use tub chair to allow patients to bathe without sitting down into tub. Never leave a child unattended in the bathtub. Keep all electrical appliances away from water.

BEDROOM

Keep phone, other items needed by patient near bedside to lessen risk of falls due to frequently getting up. Use night-lights to lessen accidents in the dark. Keep baby cribs away from drapery and electrical cords. Always keep crib rails raised. Remove plastic coverings from mattresses.

FIRE SAFETY

Install smoke detectors on all home levels. Check batteries often. Keep a fire extinguisher in the home and check it frequently. Plan a route of escape known to all home members. Use Tot Finder stickers on children’s bedroom windows. Keep matches/lighters out of reach of children. Store gasoline/flammable liquids in proper containers. Use screen with fireplaces and wood stoves. Use outlet covers on all unused outlets. Never smoke in bed.

ELECTRICAL

Avoid octopus plugs and overloading circuits. If necessary to use extension cords, use heavy type. Do not allow electrical cords to be placed under rugs. Use protective outlet caps to protect children from electrical shock. Patients are responsible for ensuring that their electrical outlets are grounded for the safe use of HHH, INC. equipment. If you are uncertain of the electrical safety of your home, it is strongly recommended that you contact a licensed electrician to evaluate your residence.

CHOKING

Avoid eating food too quickly. Take small bites and chew well. Keep children seated while eating. Never ‘prop’ a baby bottle. Become familiar with the Heimlich maneuver. Avoid small toys that could easily choke children.

POISONING

Keep poison control numbers posted near the phone. Keep cleaning supplies separate from food products. Keep medicine out of reach of children. Don’t refer to medicine as “candy’. Remove poisonous plants from the home.

MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY

Always use safety restraints when in any vehicle. Adults should utilize both the lap and shoulder belts. Children should be restrained appropriately for their age. Use car seats appropriate to the child’s age and weight. Secure all equipment that you are transporting. Always obey traffic laws and be a defensive driver.

OTHER

Use caution with automatic garage doors. Choose toys appropriate to child’s age. Avoid storage bins with lids (i.e., toy chests).