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Make Your Home Safer

Real Simple researched the leading causes of home injuries — from slips and falls to smoke and fires — to compile this complete guide to minimizing domestic mishaps

David Buttigieg

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Bathroom

Slips, Trips, Falls

For extra support getting in and out of a slippery shower, attach a grab bar to your shower wall, installing it into studs. (Decorator grab bar in chrome by Creative Specialties International, $45, www.lowes.com .)

If your tub has a slippery bottom, add nonskid decals (Rubbermaid Tub Treads, $2 to $6 a set, 888-895-2110). Make sure your bath mats are nonslip, with rubber backings.

If standing in the shower is difficult, use a handheld shower and a shower seat (adjustable tub and shower chair by Creative Specialties International, $60, www.lowes.com) to prevent injuries.

Shocks

Keep portable heaters out of the bathroom. Water and electricity don't mix.

Disconnect appliances like hair dryers and curling irons after use, and stow them away only when they're cool.

Childproofing
statistic: Nearly one-third of home drownings happen in tubs.

Always supervise young children in the bath.

Consider purchasing toilet locks if you have small children. (Safety 1st cover clamp toilet lock, $6, available at most hardware stores.)

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