June is National Safety Month.
Its purpose is twofold: first, to remind us that more accidents and injuries occur in our homes than anywhere else and, secondly, to step up our efforts to keep family members out of harm’s way, and out of hospital emergency rooms.
While the list of things any person can do to make their home a safer living environment, we’re going to focus on bathroom safety for now, especially since about 2/3 of all hospital emergency room visits stem from bathroom slips and falls.
Equip showers with sturdy grab bars anchored to wall studs so they can support the full weight of an adult.
- A flexible handheld shower wand with an on/off button might be easier to use than a traditional shower head. These are especially useful in combination with shower chairs.
- Toilets can be replaced with ADA-approved raised-height models to lessen the chance of a harsh fall. Alternatively, raised-height seats can be installed on existing toilets.
- Get a medical alert system with an extra waterproof medical alert button to keep in the bathroom at all times.
- Make sure your water heater is set no higher than 120 degrees. For an added layer of protection, install no-scald faucets and shower heads.
- Some faucet handles are difficult for arthritic hands to grip and turn. These should be replaced with models that are easier for seniors to use.
Another great way to ensure added safety in your bathroom and throughout your home is with an annual whole-house plumbing inspection from Norhio Plumbing. In the process, we can help guard against hot water scalding, accidental CO poisoning stemming from a gas leak in your water heater, and other plumbing-related hazards. Has it been a year or more since your last plumbing inspection? Then we urge you to contact us today to request service.
