Homeowner Safety Checklist

Below is a brief list of helpful suggestions that address common safety issues that you may encounter as a homeowner.

WINDOWS:  Check that all windows and doors are secure.  Improve window hardware as necessary.  Security rods can be added to sliding windows and doors.

POSSIBLE TRIPPING HAZARDS:  Make improvements to all stairways, decks, porches, landings, driveways and walkways where there is a risk of falling or stumbling.  Examine interior for loose or torn carpeting and flooring.  Make repairs as necessary.

SMOKE DETECTORS:  Install smoke detectors on each level of the home.  Ensure that there is a smoke detector outside of all sleeping areas and in each bedroom.  Replace batteries on any existing smoke detectors and test them on a regular basis.  A good time to change out the batteries is twice a year when the time changes.

FIRE / EARTHQUAKE PLAN: Create a plan of action in the event of a fire or earthquake in your home.  Ensure that there is an operable window or door in every room of the house.  Provide rope or ladders on upper stories if there is no fire escape.  Visit www.redcross.org for detailed information.

APPLIANCES:  Make sure that all of your appliances have Underwriter's Laboratory (UL) listings.  A UL listing is an assurance that the product has been tested in accordance with nationally recognized safety standards.

GARAGE: Check your electric garage door opener to make sure it is equipped with a 'safety stop' mechanism to prevent it from injuring people.  Test the door periodically by closing it on a wooden chair or bench.

FIRE EXTINGUISHER:  Purchase a general-purpose fire extinguisher for each floor of the home plus one small kitchen extinguisher for grease fires.

FIRST-AID KIT:  Keep first-aid materials and a manual in an accessible location.

HOUSEHOLD TOOLS:  Consider filling a toolbox with the basic tools to help you with normal home maintenance chores.  Include:

• Hammer
• A variety of nails
• Picture wire
• A variety of screws, nuts and bolts
• Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers
• Pliers
• Plumbers wrench
• Electric drill with drill and screwdriver bits
• Ratchet set
• Small wood saw
• Duct tape
• Flashlight
• WD 40
• Clean cotton "shop" rags
• Toilet plunger
• Tape measure
• Caulk and caulking gun

Comments

[speedfit pipe]

Carpenters, plumbers and construction workers also use tape measures. The tape measures used in this capacity are generally stiff, yet somewhat flexible, and are made of a metallic ribbon that is slightly curved on its sides. These tape measures are capable of remaining stiff and straight when properly extended.