Safety Check: Stand Up to Falls

Home is the place where we feel most safe, so it may come as a surprise to hear that falls in the home are one of the
leading causes of injury-related death in the U.S., second only to poisoning. Falls are the most common cause of
traumatic brain injuries, including concussions.

Eliminating tripping hazards
Prevent falls at home—and at work—by removing the sources of tripping:

• Secure electrical and phone cords away from walking areas, such as hallways
or in front of your desk
• Use non-skid rugs and be sure to tape them down to prevent rolling
• Keep drawers and cabinets closed when you’re not using them
• Wear proper footwear, paying special attention to outdoor conditions
• Clean up any spills immediately and include warning signage if necessary
• Refrain from walking while distracted – stay focused on your surroundings
• Ensure there is adequate lighting in your workspace
• Don’t carry more than you can handle—large loads can obstruct
your vision and affect your balance

Preventing falls in your bathroom
Falls can happen anywhere, but in your home, the bathroom is one
of the most dangerous places. According to the CDC, about 235,000
people over age 15 visit the emergency room each year due to a
bathroom related-injury. Older adults are especially susceptible.
According to the National Institute on Aging, 80 percent of senior falls
happen in the bathroom due to slippery floors and surfaces.
Keep loved ones of every age safe:

• Place a non-slip mat both inside and outside of the tub
• Plug in nightlights in and around the bathroom for increased visibility
• Clean up any condensation or puddles on the floor
• Place nonslip decals on the bottom of your shower or tub
• Keep shampoo, soap and other bath products higher up to
avoid bending
• Install grab bars by the toilet and in or near the shower and tub
to assist older adults
• Make sure the bathroom door swings outward in case of a fall

Make your home safer by starting at the source. Remove tripping
hazards around your home and ensure your bathroom is slip-free
to eliminate the risk of falling

June is National Safety Month