Home Safety & Fall-Prevention Checklist

Most falls happen at home — and most are preventable. Walk through each room with fresh eyes and make the small fixes that keep someone you love steady, safe, and independent for longer.

Every room & hallway

• Clear walking paths — no cords, clutter, or low furniture to trip on
• Remove or tape down loose rugs and mats
• Bright, even lighting; bulbs all working
• Light switches reachable at room entrances; night-lights in hallways
• A phone or way to call for help reachable from the floor

Bathroom

• Grab bars by the toilet and inside the tub/shower (not towel racks)
• Non-slip mat or strips in the tub and on the floor
• Shower chair or bench and a handheld shower head, if needed
• Raised toilet seat if standing is hard
• Water heater set to 120°F to prevent scalds

Stairs & entryways

• Sturdy handrails on both sides of every staircase
• Steps in good repair; edges marked if hard to see
• A bench or chair near the door for putting on shoes
• A clear, well-lit path to the front door and mailbox

Bedroom & kitchen

• Bed at a height that's easy to get in and out of
• Lamp and phone within reach of the bed
• Everyday dishes and food stored at waist height — no step stools
• Non-slip footwear worn at home (no loose slippers or socks)

Be ready for an emergency

• Smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors tested; batteries fresh
• Emergency numbers posted where they're easy to see
• A medical-alert button or phone plan if they're ever alone
• Fire extinguisher in the kitchen, and an exit plan