Creating a safe environment where your family can grow and thrive is a top priority. Accidents can happen at any time in your home, so it’s even more important to be prepared during a pandemic. Make sure you’re doing everything you can to achieve maximum safety at home.
Some common hazards you should be aware of:
Fires – Cooking, heating, smoking, faulty electrics or candles all can cause a fire, make sure you have checked that all your smoke alarms are working correctly. Ensure that you and all members of your household are aware of the fire exits. Check that all your windows can be opened with ease and if they have security bars that they can be easily released. At no point after leaving the house should you go back inside, wait for the emergency services to arrive.
Carbon Monoxide – Carbon monoxide is virtually impossible to detect and low levels can cause headaches and dizziness, while high levels can lead to vomiting, impaired vision, and even death. It’s vital you install a CO detector in your home, this will alert you if CO reaches dangerous levels in your home.
Falls – Wet floors, slippery surfaces, and scattered toys all create the potential for falls. Make sure all staircases are well lit, have handrails, securely affixed flooring, and safety gates if there are small children at home. Keep the stairs clear of any tripping hazards and use grip tape to secure mats in place.
Electrical Safety – Many accidents and fatalities involve electricity and must always be treated with respect. Have your wiring installation checked at least once every five years by an approved contractor. Do not use appliances that are worn or damaged flexes. Keep mains-operated appliances out of the bathroom.
Safety with medicines and cleaners – Chemical preparations should always be treated with caution. Consider having a proper lockable cabinet fitted in the kitchen and bathroom to keep out of the reach of children. Always follow the label directions when using any household cleaning products.
Here are three things to consider while planning for an emergency:
Contractors
If you are required to have contractors visit, ask them about their COVID-19 health and safety practices. Make sure everyone understands best practices and continues to follow government guidelines to protect each another from risk of infection. Try to pay your bill online to and if any family members are showing symptoms make sure you inform them.
Emergency kit
Gather a go to bag of supplies which you can grab quickly. It should include personal items like toiletries, food, and water. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic additional items will needed to be added to this bag: extra face masks, hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol, disinfectant supplies, tissues, and as well as personal hygiene items.
Evacuation Plan
If you are required to leave your property at during an evacuation , unplug major electrical equipment such as televisions and small appliances. Do not unplug your refrigerator or freezer unless there is a flood risk. And do not forget to secure your home by locking all the doors and windows.