Check your home for hazards

Simple changes can the reduce risks of falls. It's important to check the following areas of your home:

Front access

• are paths, steps, patios even and maintained?
• are handrails needed?
• is the doorway clear and free of obstacles?

Stairs and landing

• are these areas clear of clutter, well lit, with maintained carpet or flooring?
• do they require handrails for support?

Rooms and hallways

• are the carpets in good condition?
• are rugs secure and not a trip hazard?
• are walkways clear and trip-free (no cables, wires, leads, books, other clutter)?
• can you get past furniture or does it need moving so it’s not in the way?

Bathroom and kitchen

• are floors slip-resistant?
• are grab rails needed?
• are floors clear of leakages or wet areas?
• are items stored within reach?

Room temperature and lightning 

• is the temperature comfortable (ideally between 18 and 20 degrees Celsius)?
• is the room well-lit with no dark areas?
• is there any sign of damp or mould or signs of underheating?

To achieve a comfortable temperature and well-lit room, you may wish to consider retrofitting your home with:

• double or triple glazing
• draught proofing
• energy efficient LED lighting
• flexible heating controls such as a thermostat, timer, or thermostatic radiator valve
• thick curtains or window shutters to retain heat

Home Hazard Check

Solihull Independent Living Service (SILS) offers a free Home Hazard Check and can provide low level equipment to reduce the risk of falls.