As a mother, your first priority will always be your family’s safety. You do everything you can to protect them, but sometimes accidents happen in the home regardless of how many precautions you take. In fact, an estimated 156,300 cases of preventable injury-related deaths were filed in 2020. That’s why certain areas of the house need to be kept an eye on to prevent accidents.
So, where do you start? Here are some pointers for house maintenance that will help you create a safe living environment for your family.
Security
According to the Department of Justice, about 1 million home burglaries happen yearly. With the rise of new technology, criminals are finding new ways to break into homes. So, you can’t be too careful when it comes to the security of your home.
You can do a few things to beef up your home’s security and deter burglars. Start by installing motion sensor lights around your home. Doing so will make it more difficult for someone to break in without being seen. It would also be best to invest in a home security system that will not only alert you if someone tries to break into your home but also scare them off.
Another way to keep your home safe is by investing in a security camera. They’ve become more affordable over the years and offer a great way to watch over your home even when you’re not there.
Your home should be a haven for your family, so it’s essential to take measures to secure it from outside threats. By taking these steps, you can give yourself peace of mind knowing that you’ve done everything you can to safeguard your home.
Fall Hazards
Falls are one of the leading causes of injuries in the home. It accounts for about 8.9 million visits to the emergency room each year. So, it’s essential to take steps to prevent them.
Inspect the flooring for loose boards or tiles regularly, and repair any damage immediately. Keep walkways clear of clutter, and make sure rugs are firmly secured to the floor. Use non-slip mats in the bathtub and shower, and install grab bars near the toilet and in the tub or shower if necessary.
If you have young children, it’s also essential to childproof your home to prevent falls. Use safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs, and install window guards to keep kids from climbing out windows.
Simply taking these precautions can help you prevent falls and keep your family safe. So, don’t wait until someone gets hurt to take action.
Heating and Ventilation
Temperature and air quality are two important factors to consider when maintaining a healthy home. So, you must ensure that your home is adequately ventilated and heated.
In the winter months, it’s essential to keep your home warm enough to prevent hypothermia but not so warm that it poses a fire hazard. Maintain a temperature between 68-70 degrees Fahrenheit. Clean your fireplace regularly and get chimneys inspected annually to prevent fires.
In the summer months, open windows and use fans to keep cool air circulating throughout your home; however, don’t leave windows open when you’re not home, as this could provide an opportunity for burglars to enter your home.
Nonetheless, keeping an eye on the temperature in your home all year round is essential. Paying attention to the heating and ventilation in your house can help prevent accidents and keep your family comfortable no matter the season.
Plumbing
Pipes are one of the essential parts of your home, but they’re also one of the most likely to break. A burst pipe can cause extensive damage to your home, so it’s crucial to take measures to prevent them.
Check pipes regularly for leaks and repair any damage immediately. If you live in an area with freezing temperatures, insulate exposed pipes to prevent them from freezing and bursting. It would also be best to know where your main water shut-off valve is in case of an emergency.
Working with a reliable plumber will also help keep your plumbing in tip-top shape. So, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional if you have any concerns about your home’s plumbing.
Following these tips can help prevent problems with your plumbing and keep your home in good working order.
Putting your family’s safety at the forefront isn’t always easy, but it’s essential. Following these house maintenance pointers can help create a safe living environment for your loved ones. Stay vigilant, and don’t hesitate to call a professional if you have any concerns about the condition of your home; after all, peace of mind is priceless.
