If it’s one location where we all want to feel safe and secure in, it’s our home. We don’t want to spend extended periods of time in a place where we are likely to be in danger; either caused by ourselves or from others. Here are a number of safety improvements that can be implemented around the home to avoid hazardous situations from occurring.

Affix hand rails

Hand rails and stair banisters are useful if the occupants of a house have mobility issues. If you’re elderly or have physical disabilities you’ll find moving around more straightforward if these are located up stairs, in the bathroom and along corridors and paths.

Install a fire escape

If your kitchen is situated in such a way that you have to go through it to safely exit your home, you may need to consider installing a fire escape. For instance, in multi-storey houses, it may entail fitting external metal staircases. If you live in an open-plan flat, it could necessitate investing in a sprinkler system.

Fit carbon monoxide and smoke detectors

Carbon monoxide and smoke detectors can be life-saving devices. Every house should be fitted with at least one smoke alarm; one on each floor of your house. If you have a gas fire, wood-burner or multi-fuel stove it is essential to have a carbon monoxide detector fitted. These devices are practical, aren’t expensive to buy and are relatively easy to install.

Put in exterior lighting

Having motion sensor lights at the front and rear entrances of your home is a good idea in many aspects. Firstly, when you return home after dark, they’re useful for guiding you up the path or stairs to your entranceway, thereby avoiding slips and trips along the way. Secondly, they help you see to slide your door key into the lock. Most importantly, they help deter opportunistic burglars who may approach your house when it’s in complete darkness.

Connect up an intercom system

A recent technological development is the home intercom system. It allows a you to ‘answer’ the front door to visitors – even if you’re not at the property. The appliance connects to your home’s wi-fi network and, with the help of an app that you download to your smart phone, lets you see and converse with friends, delivery drivers, cold callers or anyone else who rings your doorbell. If a potential burglar presses the bell to make sure no one’s home before attempting entry, you could prevent a robbery by pretending to be there.

Are there any safety improvements that you’ve put into action in your home?

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