Room-By-Room Safety Audit

How would you like to go on a tour of your own home -- a tour unlike any other you may have taken and one that may present your familiar surroundings in a new and important light? Well, now's the time. The tour outlined here has just one purpose: to help you look at each major room of your home and learn how to make it safer for every member of your family. We've listed all recommendations for the safety features and equipment each room should ideally contain.

Entries

• Deadbolt locks.
• Outdoor security lighting that is timer or motion-detector controlled.

Living, Dining and Family Rooms

• A carbon monoxide alarm on every level where your family spends time.
• Safety plugs on unused outlets.
• Window treatments free of dangling cords if small children are present.
• Programmable timers to turn lamps on and off when you're away.
• Extension cords placed safely away from areas where they could be stepped on or tripped over.
• Outlet surge protectors for audio, video, and computer equipment.

Kitchen

• A smoke alarm with silence button.
• A fire extinguisher.
• Scatter rugs that have non slip backings or that are attached with pads or double-faced tape.
• Childproof safety latches on cabinets that contain cleaning materials.
• Short, heavy duty extension cords for appliances.
• A range hood or vent kept free of built-up grease.
• Radios, televisions and small electric appliances located safely away from the sink.
• A list of emergency numbers located prominently near the phone.

Bathrooms

• An up-to-date first-aid kit.
• Anti-scald shower/tub water controls.
• Grab bars within easy reach in each bath tub and shower.
• Shatter-resistant shower screens with no sharp edges.
• A night light.
• Childproof safety latches on cabinets containing dangerous materials.
• An electrical outlet positioned away from water fixtures.

Bedrooms

• A smoke alarm in every bedroom and main hallway.
• A carbon monoxide alarm in or near each bedroom.
• A night light.
• A fire-escape ladder (if bedrooms are above main levels).
• A fire extinguisher.
• A list of emergency numbers posted near any telephones.
• The control center for your home security system.
• A rechargeable flashlight.

Garage

• A smoke alarm.
• A fire extinguisher.
• A first-aid kit.
• Well maintained tools and equipment.
• A telephone for summoning emergency help.

A final note: