The Ultimate Home Safety Checklist: 30 Essential Tips for a Secure Living Space in 2024

home safety checklist

• Emergency PreparednessKeep emergency numbers visible near every phone (fire, police, doctors, ambulance, poison control). Ensure house number is visible from the street. Create and practice a fire escape plan Have a fully-stocked first aid kit readily available
• Fire SafetyInstall smoke detectors on every floor and test regularly Keep fire extinguishers on every floor and in the kitchen Store matches and lighters in a locked cabinet Keep an emergency ladder for upper levels of your home
• Carbon Monoxide SafetyInstall carbon monoxide detectors on every floor and test regularly Have regular inspections for furnaces, hot water heaters, and gas appliances Never use kerosene or gas space heaters in unvented rooms
• Electrical Safety:Cover all unused electrical sockets Keep electrical cords out of children's reach Unplug appliances when not in use (e.g., curling irons, hair dryers)
• Fall Prevention:Install safety gates at the tops and bottoms of stairways Use window guards and safety netting to prevent falls from windows and balconies Install grab bars in bathrooms Use non-slip mats in bathtubs and showers Remove clutter and tripping hazards from walkways and stairs
• Child SafetyUse safety latches on cabinets and drawers Install protective padding on furniture corners Secure tall furniture to prevent tipping Keep small objects and toys with small parts out of reach of young children Use cordless window coverings or secure cords out of reach
• Poisoning PreventionStore hazardous substances in original containers and out of reach Lock up medications and dispose of expired/unused drugs properly Keep the poison control number (800-222-1222) readily available
• Home SecurityInstall a home security system with cameras covering key entry/exit points Improve outdoor lighting around the home's perimeter Get to know your neighbors for community safety
• Water SafetySet water heater temperature no higher than 125°F to prevent scalding Inspect and replace water feed lines every five years Install water leak detectors in prone areas
• Outdoor SafetyKeep walkways clear of clutter Remove brush and flammable material from around the house Inspect playground equipment for rust or sharp edges Install a four-sided fence with a childproof gate around swimming pools
• General Safety MeasuresHave a working landline phone for emergencies Consider using a medical alert system for seniors or those with disabilities Regularly inspect and maintain all safety devices and equipment Review and update homeowners or renters insurance regularly
• Ladder SafetyInspect ladders for loose or worn parts before use Use ladders only on stable, level ground Avoid overreaching when on a ladder
• Power Tool SafetyWear protective eyewear when operating power tools Keep power tools out of reach of children Unplug tools when not in use
• Kitchen SafetyTurn pot handles inward on stoves or use back burners Store sharp objects and appliances out of children's reach Keep a fire extinguisher easily accessible in the kitchen
• Bathroom SafetyInstall nonskid strips in bathtubs Use an elevated toilet seat for seniors or those with mobility issues Verify that outlets have grounded circuit breakers
• Bedroom Safety:Ensure cribs meet current safety standards Keep crib slats less than 2 3/8 inches (6 cm) apart Never place babies to sleep in adult beds
• Garage and Storage Area SafetyStore flammable substances away from ignition sources Keep dangerous tools and chemicals locked away Ensure proper ventilation when using gas-powered equipment
• Pet SafetyKeep toxic plants out of reach Store antifreeze and other pet-toxic substances securely Consider getting pet insurance for unexpected vet bills
• Senior Safety:Install adequate lighting, especially on stairs and in hallways Remove throw rugs or secure them to prevent tripping Consider a medical alert system or panic button
• Smart Home SafetyUse smart controls to give the impression of occupancy when away Install smart smoke and carbon monoxide detectors for remote alerts Consider smart locks for keyless entry and remote access control
• Fireplace and Chimney SafetyHave chimneys and flues professionally inspected annually Use a fireplace screen to prevent sparks from escaping Never leave a fire unattended
• Window SafetyInstall window stops or guards to prevent falls, especially in upper floors Ensure at least one window in each room can be used as an emergency exit Keep furniture away from windows to discourage climbing
• Basement SafetyInstall a sump pump to prevent flooding Test for radon and mitigate if necessary Keep the basement well-ventilated to prevent mold growth
• Lawn and Garden SafetyStore lawn chemicals and fertilizers out of reach of children and pets Wear protective gear when using lawn equipment Keep garden tools locked away when not in use
• Holiday SafetyUse only UL-approved lights and decorations Never leave candles unattended Keep Christmas trees well-watered and away from heat sources
• Home Office SafetyOrganize cords to prevent tripping hazards Use ergonomic furniture to prevent strain injuries Secure heavy equipment like printers or file cabinets
• Laundry Room SafetyClean the dryer lint trap after each use Inspect and clean dryer vents annually Keep laundry products out of reach of children
• Gun Safety (if applicable)Store firearms unloaded and locked in a secure safe Keep ammunition in a separate locked location Educate family members about gun safety rules
• Earthquake Safety (in prone areas)Secure heavy furniture and appliances to walls Have an earthquake kit ready with essentials Know how to shut off gas and water mains
• Severe Weather SafetyHave a weather radio for emergency alerts Designate a safe room or area for tornadoes or hurricanes Trim trees near the house to prevent damage from falling branches