Keeping our homes safe is something we often take for granted until something unexpected happens. If it is preventing fires, deterring intruders, or safeguarding children from accidents, being proactive about home safety rules is essential.
Below, we’ll explore 20 home safety rules that, when practiced consistently, can help protect your home, loved ones, and property. With these practical tips, you’ll be empowered to create a safe and secure environment for everyone who lives there.
20 Essential Safety Rules for Household
These home safety rules, when practiced, will ensure your home and family are protected.
1. Lock Doors and Windows Regularly
One of the simplest yet most overlooked safety measures is locking all doors and windows, even when you’re only stepping out for a short time. Many break-ins happen during broad daylight because intruders assume no one’s home. Get into the habit of checking that doors and windows are secure before leaving, especially if you have multiple entrances.
2. Install Smoke Detectors
Smoke detectors are lifesavers, literally. Each floor of your home should have a smoke detector, particularly near sleeping areas and the kitchen. Test the alarms monthly to ensure they’re working properly, and replace batteries annually. A good practice is to change batteries on a memorable date, like the beginning of daylight saving time.
3. Use Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that’s extremely dangerous. Installing CO detectors near bedrooms and in areas where fuel-burning appliances are used can save lives. Make sure they’re working correctly by testing them regularly, as they’re your first line of defense against CO poisoning.
4. Create and Practice a Fire Escape Plan
Having a fire escape plan is crucial for family safety. Walk through your home with your family, identifying two exits for each room, and establish a designated meeting place outside. Practice this drill a couple of times a year, so everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency.
5. Keep Emergency Numbers Accessible
Keep a list of emergency numbers (police, fire department, and a neighbor’s contact) visible near your main phone or in a central spot. While cell phones can store numbers, a printed list ensures access for everyone, especially kids, who may need to call for help.
6. Store Hazardous Materials Out of Reach
Cleaning supplies, chemicals, and medications should be stored in high or locked cabinets to prevent children and pets from accidentally accessing them. In the kitchen, consider placing childproof locks on low cabinets containing harmful substances.
7. Avoid Overloading Electrical Outlets
Plugging too many appliances into a single outlet or using excessive extension cords can cause electrical fires. Be mindful of how much load you’re placing on each outlet, and distribute devices across multiple outlets.
8. Inspect for Frayed Electrical Cords
Frayed cords are fire hazards waiting to happen. Make it a habit to check electrical cords on appliances, lamps, and extension cords every few months. Replace any that show signs of wear, such as exposed wires or burns.
9. Use Safe Heating Practices
If you use space heaters, make sure they’re at least three feet away from curtains, furniture, and other flammable items. Never leave them on when you leave the room, and ensure they have an automatic shut-off in case they tip over.
10. Install Security Cameras
Visible security cameras can act as a strong deterrent to would-be intruders. Place them near entry points like the front door, back door, and garage. Modern systems allow remote viewing on your phone, giving you peace of mind when you’re away from home.
11. Maintain Clear Sight Lines Around Windows
Thick bushes or trees close to your home can provide cover for intruders. Keep landscaping trimmed, especially near windows, to improve visibility around your property and make it harder for someone to hide.
12. Don’t Leave Candles Unattended
Candles create a cozy atmosphere, but they’re also a common cause of home fires. Always blow them out when you leave a room or go to sleep. Alternatively, consider using battery-powered LED candles for ambiance without the risk.
13. Keep the Garage Door Closed
An open garage door invites strangers to see what’s inside and provides access to your home if it’s attached. Make it a rule to keep the garage closed, even if you’re just running inside for a few minutes.
14. Store Tools Securely
Items like ladders, hammers, and gardening tools can be dangerous if left in the open. Store them in a locked cabinet or shed to prevent accidents and avoid giving potential intruders easy access to tools that could aid them in breaking in.
15. Keep Valuables Out of Sight
Try not to leave expensive items like electronics, jewelry, or bikes visible from windows. Place valuable items in low-traffic areas or use window treatments like blinds or curtains to block them from outside view.
16. Use Childproof Locks Where Needed
If you have young children, childproof locks are essential for cabinets with chemicals, sharp objects, or medicines. Be consistent with these locks, as kids quickly learn which areas to avoid when they’re always secured.
17. Install Fire Extinguishers and Learn to Use Them
Place a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and another in a central part of the home, like a hallway or near the garage. Remember the acronym PASS: Pull the pin, Aim at the base, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep from side to side. It’s wise to have a small instructional lesson with family members so everyone knows how to operate an extinguisher.
18. Keep Walkways Clear of Clutter
Trips and falls are common, particularly in cluttered areas. Regularly tidy up walkways, hallways, and staircases to keep them free of obstacles. This practice is especially important for homes with older adults or children who are more prone to accidents.
19. Regularly Clean Out Dryer Vents
Dryer lint build-up is highly flammable and a leading cause of home fires. Clean out your dryer lint trap after each use, and check the vent pipe every few months. If you’re unsure, consider hiring a professional to do a deep clean annually.
20. Teach Children Basic Safety Practices
Kids need to know the basics of home safety, such as never opening the door to strangers, what to do if there’s a fire, and how to call 911. Start with simple rules and reinforce them over time to ensure they know what to do in different situations.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your home safe isn’t about making it feel like a fortress; it’s about creating a protected environment that allows you and your family to enjoy peace of mind. Each of these 20 safety rules works together to address different vulnerabilities that may arise, from fire hazards to intrusions and everyday accidents.
