Follow these simple home safety tips to make your home safe and comfortable for you and your family.
Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors - A smoke detector should be installed in every bedroom and one on every floor of your home. A CO detector should be installed within 15 feet of each bedroom.
Test your GFCI receptacles monthly - GFCI, or ground fault circuit interrupters, are the outlets typically located in your bathroom, kitchen and garage that are intended to protect you from electrical shock. These outlets have 2 buttons, one that says ‘test’ and one that says ‘reset’. To test press the ‘test’ button and verify that the electrical current has been stopped by plugging in any electrical device and verifying that it doesn’t turn on. Press ‘reset’ to restore power. Replace them if the don’t work.
Use your ladders safely - ladders are involved in over 100,000 injuries each year. Be sure your ladder is set up properly, is in good working order and that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use.
Well stocked first aid kit – a well stocked first aid kit should be readily available in your home and garage or workshop.
Protect yourself when using power tools - When using power tools be sure you are plugged into a GFCI protected circuit or purchase and use a GFCI protected power cord.
Correct unsafe stairways and landings. Repair treads that are uneven, too narrow, sloped or loose. Install good lighting on landings and stairways. Repair or replace railings that are missing, loose or too low.
Locate your water and gas shut off valves – Look for your main water shut off valve near the wall closest to the street on the lowest level of your home. Individual water shut off valves should be located at each sink and toilet and at your water heater. Individual gas shut off valves should be located at every gas fired appliance (i.e. dryer, stove, water heater, furnace, fireplace, etc.)
About the author:
Judy Browne is the creator and founder of Workshop for Women, LLC. Workshop for Women offers fun hands-on classes in basic home improvement skills especially designed for women. Classes include: Power Tools, Carpentry, Pluming, Electrical, Drywall Repair and more. Judy is also a certified inspector with Pillar to Post Denver. Visit www.workshopforwomen.com for more information or give Judy a call at 303-284-6354.
More safety tips at: http://doityourselfdenver.blogspot.com/search/label/Safety