Preventing domestic accidents (children and seniors)
The home is the place of the majority of accidents. Secure risk areas for the most fragile.
Recommended Materials
- Door stoppers / Drawer locks
- Non-slip mats
- Stair gate
- Socket covers
Steps to follow
Step 1
The kitchen (red zone): Systematically turn saucepan handles towards the inside of the hob (so that a child cannot grab them). Install drawer locks/cupboard locks to secure knives, household products and plastic bags. Never leave hot liquid (coffee, soup) on the edge of the table or worktop.
Step 2
The bathroom: The non-slip mat is MANDATORY in the shower and bathtub (for all ages). Set the water heater thermostat to 50°C maximum to avoid instant severe burns. For seniors, install a solid grab bar (fixed to the wall, not suction cup) to help enter/exit.
Step 3
Stairs: Install safety gates at the top AND bottom for young children (up to 3 years old). For seniors, ensure powerful and automatic lighting (motion detector), install contrasting non-slip stair nosings and a solid handrail. Never leave anything lying on the steps.
Step 4
Electricity: Install suction cup or key socket covers for children. Avoid overloaded power strips lying on the floor. Have your electrical installation checked (presence of a 30mA differential switch that cuts the current in case of electrocution).
Step 5
Toxic products and medicines: Imperatively store them high up, in a locked cupboard. Always keep products in their original packaging (never transfer bleach into a mineral water bottle!).
Frequently Asked Questions
Table corners ?
Coffee table or TV stand corners are at the exact height of a toddler's head. Install soft silicone corner protectors.
Plants ?
Check that your indoor plants are not toxic (oleander, ficus, lily of the valley, dieffenbachia...). Children and animals chew on everything.
Precautions
- Never leave a child alone in the bath (even 1 minute).
- Display emergency numbers (112, Poison Control Center) near the phone.
