Minnesota Falls Prevention Initiative

Be Safe at Home

Most falls occur at home. Stay safe and independent in your home by following these simple suggestions.

Move books, boxes, shoes and clutter out of your path and off stairs.
Move extension, appliance and telephone cords that you can trip over.
Watch where your pets are sleeping or lying down.
Rearrange furniture to allow a clear path. If the furniture is heavy, ask for help

Put away those throw and scatter rugs!
Apply double-sided tape to the back of carpet to keep it from moving. Double-sided tape costs $3 to $7 at a hardware or discount store.
Take your time when getting to the phone or to answer the door. Rushing may cause you to trip and fall.
When walking up and down stairs, take your time and use the handrail.

Turn the lights on as you move through the house and up and down the stairs.
Use nightlights to brighten bedrooms, halls and bathrooms.
Have a lamp or flashlight and your glasses within easy reach of your bed.
Keep a small flashlight on your keychain. A keychain flashlight costs $2 to $10 at a discount store or sporting goods store.
When spending the night away from home, take along a flashlight so when you wake up in an unfamiliar room you can find your way to the bathroom.

Use a non-slip mat in the tub or shower. Non-slip mats cost $5 to $7 at a hardware store, discount store or medical supply store.
Use a bath bench or shower stool. These items cost $21 to $30 at a discount store, medical supply store, or ask for help ordering one on-line.
Install a grab bar next to the toilet and in the bathtub or shower. A towel rack doesn’t work – it can pull out of the wall. Call the Senior LinkAge Line® (1-800-333-2433) to find a professional who installs grab bars.

Check for Safety: A Home Fall Prevention Checklist for Older Adults is available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, visit http://www.cdc.gov/HomeandRecreationalSafety/Falls/pubs.html
Fall Prevention Home Safety Checklist is available from the Minnesota Safety Council, visit www.minnesotasafetycouncil.org/SeniorSafe or call 1-800-444-9150
Obtain Tools You Can Use, visit the Fall Prevention Center of Excellence at http://www.stopfalls.org/individuals_families/if_em.shtml

Learn about the Lifetime Home Project at http://www.lifetimehome.us.