Home Hazards

A home is where we live, it is where we raise our children, and comfort our family, it is the place where we typically feel the safest. However, if not properly taken care of, your home can be a place filled with deadly hazards for your family. It is not our goal here to “scare” you into properly protecting your family, although sometimes that is the best method. Instead we will provide a list of common hazards around the home, and some ideas for how to protect your loved ones from these hazards.

Chemicals/Home Cleaning Items

Chemicals and home cleaning items should be kept out of the reach of children at all times, if possible they should remain in a locked cabinet.

Electrical Outlets

Electrical outlets can be especially dangerous to younger adventurous children. Outlets should be capped with an approved outlet cover. These plastic covers are relatively inexpensive and can be purchased at most stores.

Firearms

Firearms are obviously dangerous in the home in the area of accidents. However, they are also dangerous when teens remove them from the home. Firearms must be stored in a locked area, and the ammunition must be stored in a different locked area.

Windows

In many older homes windows can be quite dangerous when the pulleys become dry and frayed. Windows should be checked, if the pulley cable is damaged it should be replaced. If it cannot be replaced it should be propped so it cannot be opened, however, it should not be nailed shut, as this can be an additional hazard if a fire broke out and you needed to escape through the window.