We all want out homes to be safe; safe from burglars, safe for our children and safe for our elderly relatives. But it’s not always possible to install a brand new (not to mention, expensive) home security system or easy-access bathroom facilities. Don’t worry, just because you’re not a millionaire doesn’t mean you can’t keep your household safe so in this post, we run through a few simple tips for improving home safety.
1. Turn Down Your Water Heater
By turning down your water heater to a lower temperature you can eliminate any accidental scalding caused by hot water. What’s more, it’ll save you money!
2. Install New Locks On Doors And Windows
This is especially useful if you’ve just moved into a new house or have a habit of giving keys away! Deadbolts are cost-effective locking mechanisms which are often made from toughened steel making them more resistant to entry. Be careful though, as deadbolts can be problematic in house fires unless the correct key is used.
3. Invest In Outdoor Lighting
Motion sensor or flood lighting is perfect for exterior spaces and may deter burglars. Motion sensor lighting will light up when it detects movement whilst flood lighting is very bright and beams out at a broad angle providing an extra sense of security. Plus, if you buy LED lighting it can last up to 10 times longer than halogen, incandescent or fluorescent lights. Make sure your outdoor lights cover all areas of your outside space as well as entry points.
4. Add Plants
For a further deterrent against burglars, grow some security plants along your property lines and underneath windows. Spiny shrubs and trees such as acacia bushes or a creeping juniper are ideal. The only downside is you might have to wait a while for results!
5. Install And Check Alarms
Ensure you have both smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in your home. Position your detectors outside bedrooms and familiarise yourself with the signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. But don’t forget to check the alarms regularly and change batteries annually.
6. Secure Your Furniture
Research suggests most accidents occur in the lounge or living room. Secure furniture and make sure it’s on stable flooring to prevent it from tipping or falling. If possible, anchor furniture to the floor or walls such as TV’s.
7. Ventilate
To prevent mould buy a dehumidifier to promote clean air flow in and around the home. Your house should have exhaust fans in both the kitchen and bathrooms, too.
8. Steam It!
Steam cleaners save money and energy. Because they only use clean water and no chemicals they eliminate the production of volatile organic compounds which are often found in our household cleaning products.
9. Childproof Your Home
Cosmetics, cleaners, medications and other products should be kept out of reach of children. Put them in a high cabinet and place childproof locks on the doors. Similarly, childproof plug sockets with inexpensive covers. For a temporary remedy, place plasters over the socket holes.
10. Prevent Slips and Trips
Be aware of slippery floors, particularly if you live with elderly residents or young children. Take extra precautions when the floors have been mopped or are wet and install grab bars in the shower for extra support when getting in and out.
By turning down your water heater to a lower temperature you can eliminate any accidental scalding caused by hot water. What’s more, it’ll save you money!
2. Install New Locks On Doors And Windows
This is especially useful if you’ve just moved into a new house or have a habit of giving keys away! Deadbolts are cost-effective locking mechanisms which are often made from toughened steel making them more resistant to entry. Be careful though, as deadbolts can be problematic in house fires unless the correct key is used.
3. Invest In Outdoor Lighting
Motion sensor or flood lighting is perfect for exterior spaces and may deter burglars. Motion sensor lighting will light up when it detects movement whilst flood lighting is very bright and beams out at a broad angle providing an extra sense of security. Plus, if you buy LED lighting it can last up to 10 times longer than halogen, incandescent or fluorescent lights. Make sure your outdoor lights cover all areas of your outside space as well as entry points.
4. Add Plants
5. Install And Check Alarms
Ensure you have both smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in your home. Position your detectors outside bedrooms and familiarise yourself with the signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. But don’t forget to check the alarms regularly and change batteries annually.
6. Secure Your Furniture
Research suggests most accidents occur in the lounge or living room. Secure furniture and make sure it’s on stable flooring to prevent it from tipping or falling. If possible, anchor furniture to the floor or walls such as TV’s.
7. Ventilate
To prevent mould buy a dehumidifier to promote clean air flow in and around the home. Your house should have exhaust fans in both the kitchen and bathrooms, too.
8. Steam It!
Steam cleaners save money and energy. Because they only use clean water and no chemicals they eliminate the production of volatile organic compounds which are often found in our household cleaning products.
9. Childproof Your Home
Cosmetics, cleaners, medications and other products should be kept out of reach of children. Put them in a high cabinet and place childproof locks on the doors. Similarly, childproof plug sockets with inexpensive covers. For a temporary remedy, place plasters over the socket holes.
10. Prevent Slips and Trips
Be aware of slippery floors, particularly if you live with elderly residents or young children. Take extra precautions when the floors have been mopped or are wet and install grab bars in the shower for extra support when getting in and out.
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