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HOUSEHOLD EMERGENCIES
MAKING YOUR BATHROOM SAFE
Always test the water temperature before getting into a shower
Install a firm grab rail over the bathtub
Install electrical outlets in the bathroom for electric razors only
Control wall-mounted bathroom lighting by pull-cord switches
Use non-slip mats in the shower and bathtub
• Secure a grab rail on the wall above the bathtub to provide extra support – especially for elderly people.
• Run the cold water first when preparing a bath for young children.
• Never leave young children on their own in a bath.
• Make sure that shower units are fitted with efficient thermostatic controls, so that there is no risk of anyone being scalded.
• Store medicines in a locked cabinet out of the reach of children.
• Never use an electrical appliance, such as a hairdryer or radio, in a bathroom.
• Never touch an electrical item with wet hands.
• Make sure that bathroom lights and wall-mounted heaters are controlled by pull-cord switches or switches outside the room.
• Check gas water heaters regularly to ensure that flues remain clear. Install a carbon monoxide detector or alarm( p. 173).
• Never mix two types of household chemicals, such as bleach and bathroom cleaner. The combination can produce poisonous fumes.
• Keep all such chemicals out of the reach of children.
MAKING YOUR BEDROOM SAFE
• Service electric blankets regularly and check their wiring for wear and deterioration.
• Never leave electric blankets on overnight unless the instructions make it clear that it is safe to do so. They may overheat and catch fire.
• Keep a flashlight and your cellular phone( if you have one) by the bed at night, for use in an emergency.
• Never smoke in bed. You could fall asleep with a lit cigarette.
• Never drape a cloth over a bedside light to reduce glare. The heat from
the bulb could cause a fire.
• Keep bedroom floors clear of clutter, especially if elderly people or young
children may get up to use the bathroom at night.
• If bedroom windows have locks, keep the keys nearby – you may need to
use windows as emergency exits. If possible, leave bedroom windows unlocked at night.