Common Home Injuries and How to Prevent Them

Did you know that on average unintentional falls kill more people annually than traffic accidents? These deaths can be caused by anything from improperly tuned equipment to unsafe storage and construction. Many think that a serious household injury will never actually happen to them, but home accidents send over 21 million Americans to hospital every year.The key to avoiding injury-causing accidents at home is to know and identify a risk so that necessary actions can be taken against it. Here are the most common causes of home injuries in the U.S.A, and some suggestions to maintain home safety.

1. Slipping and Falling

For younger and fitter people, falling might not present much of a problem. However, for the elderly, falls can lead to serious injury and hospitalisation. To prevent a harmful fall, remove clutter from floors, and remove rugs or secure them so that they don’t slide. Also, put non-slip mats on your bathroom floor.

2. Poisoning

Poisoning is a big problem for curious children, but seniors with poor eyesight are also at risk. Make sure all the labels on household chemicals are clear and easy to read with big letters. Never store chemicals in food containers, and make sure that your home is evenly lit by bright enough lights to read the warning labels.

3. Burns and Electrical Danger

Improper use of household appliances can lead to serious injuries. There are many kitchen appliances that can start fires when left unattended. Even simply mishandling a plug and socket can cause electrocution or electrical fire. Make sure to unplug all appliances when they are not in use and turn off the ovens and stove burners. Keep your kitchen clean to avoid touching a heated pan accidentally.

4. Falling Objects

As you can imagine, heavy objects falling from high places cause some of the most common home injuries. The answer to this problem is obvious: secure overhead storage and avoid keeping heavy objects, like televisions and lamps, on high shelves. Make sure that all your kitchen cabinets, wall TVs, and other secured overhead objects are attached correctly to prevent them from falling and injuring you and your family.

Common home injuries like burns, broken bones, bruises and poisoning can be avoided by using common sense and by outfitting your home with the necessary safety precautions. Don’t fall victim to your own home - it should be a place where you can rely on your safety and have some peace of mind, not a place where there is danger at every turn