Home Safety Checklist

Fire Safety Essentials

Fire is one of the most serious home risks, but most home fires are preventable with simple precautions.

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and inside/outside every sleeping area.
• Test smoke alarms monthly by pressing the test button.
• Replace smoke alarm batteries at least once a year, or use 10-year sealed-battery alarms.
• Replace smoke alarms entirely every 10 years (they degrade over time).
• Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and know how to use it (PASS method: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep).
• Never leave cooking food unattended on the stove.
• Keep flammable items (towels, curtains, paper) at least 3 feet away from heaters and stoves.
• Have a clear escape plan with two ways out of every room and a designated meeting point outside.
• Practice the home fire escape plan with everyone in the household twice a year.
• Check electrical cords for fraying or damage and replace damaged cords.
• Do not overload power strips or outlets.

Carbon Monoxide Safety

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless, and deadly gas produced by fuel-burning appliances. It is often called the "silent killer."

• Install a carbon monoxide detector on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas.
• Test CO detectors monthly and replace batteries at least once a year.
• Replace CO detectors according to the manufacturer's instructions (usually every 5-7 years).
• Have fuel-burning appliances (furnace, water heater, stove) serviced annually by a professional.
• Never run a generator, grill, or car inside the garage, even with the door open.
• Never use a gas oven to heat your home.
• Ensure flues and chimneys are clear and venting properly.

Fall & Trip Hazard Prevention

Falls are a leading cause of injury at home, especially for older adults and young children. Most can be prevented with simple fixes.

• Keep walkways and stairs clear of clutter, cords, and loose items.
• Secure loose rugs with non-slip pads or tape.
• Install grab bars in the bathroom near the toilet and shower.
• Use non-slip mats in the bathtub and shower.
• Ensure stairways have sturdy handrails on both sides where possible.
• Improve lighting in hallways, stairways, and entryways; use night lights.
• Repair loose or uneven floorboards and tiles promptly.
• Keep frequently used items within easy reach to avoid using step stools on ladders.
• Clear ice and snow from walkways in winter.
• Secure television sets and heavy furniture to walls to prevent tipping.

Electrical & Appliance Safety

• Inspect all electrical cords for damage and replace any that are frayed or cracked.
• Do not run extension cords under rugs or carpets.
• Use power strips with built-in surge protection for electronics.
• Keep electrical appliances away from water sources.
• Have a licensed electrician inspect your home if fuses blow or breakers trip frequently.
• Unplug small appliances when not in use.
• Clean the lint filter in the dryer after every use and the vent duct regularly.
• Never use damaged or recalled appliances.

Seasonal Home Safety Checks

Spring & Summer

• Test smoke and CO detectors after any battery change.
• Inspect outdoor power outlets and extension cords for damage.
• Check windows and screens for safety locks, especially with young children.
• Ensure the water heater is set to a safe temperature (below 120°F / 49°C to prevent scalding).
• Store flammable chemicals (gasoline, paint thinners) away from heat sources and out of children's reach.

Autumn & Winter

• Service the furnace or heating system before the cold season.
• Check chimneys and flues for blockages and creosote buildup.
• Test CO detectors — heating season is the highest risk for CO poisoning.
• Keep space heaters at least 3 feet from anything flammable and turn them off when sleeping.
• Check door and window seals for drafts and for proper functioning locks.
• Prepare an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, water, and first aid supplies.

Creating a Family Emergency Plan

Being prepared is the best safety measure. A simple family emergency plan can make a huge difference in a crisis.

• Identify and agree on a safe meeting point outside the home.
• Teach everyone how to call emergency services and know the local number.
• Write down important emergency contacts and post them somewhere visible.
• Keep a well-stocked first aid kit and know basic first aid.
• Prepare a 72-hour emergency kit with water, food, medications, and supplies.
• Review and practice the plan with all household members at least twice a year.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I test my smoke alarm?

Test every smoke alarm monthly by pressing the test button. Replace batteries at least once a year (unless it has a sealed 10-year battery), and replace the entire alarm every 10 years.

Where should I place a carbon monoxide detector?

Place CO detectors on every level of your home and near sleeping areas. They can be placed on walls or ceilings; follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best placement.

What is the PASS method for a fire extinguisher?

PASS stands for: Pull the pin, Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep from side to side. Only use a fire extinguisher on small, contained fires, and always ensure you have an escape route.

How can I make my home safer for older adults?

Improve lighting, remove trip hazards, install grab bars in the bathroom, use non-slip mats, keep frequently used items within reach, and consider a medical alert system if needed.

Do I really need a CO detector if I don't have gas appliances?

Yes. CO can also come from fireplaces, wood stoves, attached garages with running vehicles, and even some electric appliances that malfunction. Every home should have a CO detector.