More than 20,000 Americans die every year after accidents in their homes. And, each year, 3 million more children and adults become disabled because of accidents at home. These are alarming numbers. But, what’s more alarming is that thousands of these deaths and injuries may be prevented. Easter Seals and the CENTURY 21® System are working together to make everyone aware of some easy and important home safety tips. Take a few moments to check
out your own home. This family checklist identifies some of the most common hazards, which will help you find and correct them. For almost 30 years, the CENTURY 21 System has supported Easter Seals’ work to help children and adults with disabilities live fuller lives. But, whenever we can, we’d like to help families know how to prevent disabilities from happening in the home.


CHECK FOR THE BASICS
THROUGHOUT YOUR HOME

■ Do you have emergency numbers next to the phone?
■ Is there a stepladder handy?
■ Are electrical outlets exposed? They can be covered
if unused.
■ Are extension cords frayed? Replace them.
■ Do you check electrical outlets to be sure they’re
not overloaded?
■ Do you know where the circuit breaker or fuse box
is? Do you have spares?
■ Do you know how to turn off the electricity and gas
in an emergency?
■ Is your hot water heater set at 120° F or below?
■ Do you have fresh batteries in the smoke detector
and the carbon monoxide detector?
■ Is your fire extinguisher ready to use?
■ Are your floors non-skid?
■ Are your floor coverings and rugs secure?
■ Do you have protective screens in front of fireplaces?
■ Are candles kept away from walls and curtains?
■ Do interior doors have safety release locks so they
can open from either side?
■ If there are small children in your home, are
windows and screens secure?
■ Is lead-free paint used on all surfaces?
■ Are furnaces and flues regularly inspected and
cleaned?
■ Are guns unloaded and locked up?
■ Does everyone know two ways to exit your home?


Congratulations for every “yes.” For every “no,” please correct the problem quickly. You’ll be making your home sweet home a home safe home.

For more information on making your home safe,
visit www.easterseals.com/easyaccess