HOME SAFETY CHECKLIST

ENTRANCE:

• Can you enter the house or apartment safely?
• Is a secure railing present?
• Can you view visitors prior to entry?
• Is the lock is working order?

LIVING AREAS:

• Is the doorway accessible?
• Is there an uncluttered walking pathway?
• Can you get up and down safely from the sofa and chair?
• Can you open and close the windows?
• Can you manage the television?
• Can you manipulate the light switches?
• Are cords out from beneath carpeting and furniture?

KITCHEN:

• Is the doorway accessible?
• Are the appliances in working order?
• Can you manipulate the faucets of the sink?
• Can you open and close the refrigerator and freezer?
• Can you open and close high and low cabinets?
• Is adequate workspace available?
• Can you reach the dishes, pots, silverware, and food supply?
• Can you reach the stove controls?
• Can you manage the stove door?
• Can you reach the outlets?
• Can you safely transport food to eating area?
• Are sharp objects stored safely?
• Are flammables kept away from the stove area?
• Do you have a step stool which is stable and in good repair?

BEDROOM:

• Is the doorway accessible?
• Can you get up and down safely from the bed?
• Is the light accessible from bed?
• Can you reach the phone?
• Can you reach your clothes in the closet and dresser?
• Is there a clear path to the bathroom?

BATHROOM:

• Is the doorway accessible?
• Can you safely transfer into the tub or shower?
• Will a tub bench or tub chair be needed?
• Is a bath mat or are non-skid strips in place?
• Can you safely transfer to the toilet?
• Will a safety frame, raised seat or grab bar be needed?
• Can you reach the outlets?
• Can you manipulate the light switches?
• Can you functionally use the sink?

STAIRWAYS:

• Is a secure handrail present?
• Is there adequate illumination?
• Is the carpet secure?
• Are the steps free of clutter?

GENERAL:

• Are there working smoke detectors on every floor?
• Do you have a carbon monoxide detector?
• Are electrical cords free of frays?
• Are there no outlets or switches which are unusually warm or hot to touch?
• Is there adequate illumination throughout the house?
• Are small rugs and runners slip-resistant?
• Is the house free of pests?
• Are the plumbing and utilities working?
• Are you able to retrieve the mail safely?
• Are emergency phone numbers posted on or near the telephone?
• Do you have access to a telephone if you fall?
• Are all medicines stored in the containers that they came in and are they clearly marked?