It’s not easy thinking about everything that could go wrong around the house. Some hazards, like bleach, are obvious, while others, like a loose stair railing, are not. Luckily, we’ve done the homework for you and put together a list of the most helpful tips that will ensure a safer home. We’ve also included some tips on what to do in case of an emergency, like a fire. So, the next time there’s a crisis, don’t panic. Stay Safe and Sound.
Fire safety
- Install smoke detectors and replace the batteries once a year.
- Keep a fire extinguisher in an accessible place.
- Regularly practise the fire escape plan with your family.
- Never leave a stove unattended and always check that you’ve turned it off.
- Hide lighters and matches away from children.
- If you’re using candles do not leave them unattended and place them away from flammable material.
- If there’s a fire, get out, stay out, and call for help.
Stay safe while moving home
- Be careful if you’re using movers and keep all valuable items out of sight.
- Organise a guard through a security company to help deter opportunistic thieves.
- Before you do anything, clear high-traffic areas of all obstacles.
- Always wear supportive footwear with a good grip. Avoid wearing sandals.
- Always bend with your legs instead of your back when picking boxes up.
- If you’re passing boxes to someone else, make sure they have a firm grip before letting go.
- Keep a first-aid kit on hand.
Working online
- Never install unknown software.
- Don’t share personal information or passwords.
- Check that your antivirus program will block access to objectionable sites.
- Keep your antivirus and antispyware software up to date.
- Use your browser’s parental control settings to limit your child’s online access.
- Ignore emails from your bank asking you to confirm or update your details.
- Do not open emails from unknown or suspicious sources.
- Never access your bank’s website through a link sent by email.
- Watch out for lottery scams that trick you into believing you won money or a prize!
- Stay away from websites that you don’t trust. They could contain malware that will infect and even ruin your computer.
Staying home
- Never leave keys in the door.
- When you are out keep your doors and windows locked.
- Turn on your outside lights and close the curtains when it is dark.
- Ensure you have all emergency numbers on speed dial.
- The more you can see, the safer you are. Add residential CCTV to your security measures.
- Join the local Neighbourhood Watch so you can alert your neighbours of suspicious activity.
- Don’t leave items like bicycles or tools lying outside. They will attract criminals.
- Keep bushes trimmed so that criminals can’t use them as a hiding place.
- Plant thorny shrubs, like rosebushes, beneath your windows to deter burglars.
