Household Safety

Are you sure that your home is the safe haven you want it to be? Your home's age and design; amenities such as whirlpool tubs, fireplaces, and decks; and the physical condition of the people living with you may require some modifications to make sure everyone stays safe and happy.

Here is a checklist of safety items that no home should be without:

• Smoke alarms
• Carbon monoxide alarm
• Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI)
• Fire extinguishers
• Flashlights and batteries
• Listed emergency numbers
• Tags on shutoff valves
• Handrails on stairways
• Adequate lighting
• First aid kit

You should also inspect your home regularly to catch potential problems in their early stages. Always read warning labels and user manuals and file them where they can be found quickly. Finally, make sure that your family has an emergency evacuation plan that everyone knows.