How To Identify And Avoid Dangerous Hazards In Your Home

Its safe to say that none of us is purposely making our homes a hazard. And, no matter how hard we try, accidents still happen. But there is nothing more important than protecting ourselves, our families, and our investment.

"The home is supposed to be where you and your family are safe and protected but every year accident and emergency units deal with serious injuries and sometimes fatal accidents that occur in the home," said StaySafe. "It is not just children and the elderly that can come to harm in the home with things like chemicals and choke hazards. Accidents in the home claim 18,000 lives each year in America alone, "accounting for 21 million medical visits annually. Many of these accidents are preventable."

These tips will uncover key areas where dangers typically lie and the simple maintenance involved in avoiding them.

Dryer vents

Thousands of fires are started in the home every year because of deferred maintenance >

Falls

A third of all fatalities in the home are due to falls. A great number of them are >

Blinds

The thought of a young child being strangled due to hanging cords from window blinds is horrifying. But it happens. According to USA Today, "Injuries and death from window blind cords send two kids to emergency department each day." Eliminate the worry without having to give up the blinds by choosing a cordless version. They give you the look and room-darkening features you want with some added safety measures.

Fire alarms

Whens the last time you changed your fire alarm batteries? If you cant remember, youre obviously overdue. "Installnbsp;fire alarmsnbsp;on all levels of your home, and check and change the batteries at least annually," said safewise. "Consider investing in a smart smoke detector likenbsp;Nest Protect. This alarm uses Wi-Fi to provide real-time updates and remote monitoring right on your smartphone or other mobile device."

A dirty oven

Most ovens today have a self-cleaning feature. While its not enti>

"A dirty oven can cause fires while cooking, allowing charred food or grease to ignite," said Home Security. "Clean your oven regularly and always attend food while cooking in the oven.

Carbon monoxide poisoning

Carbon monoxide is called the silent killer because "its presence is not known until symptoms of the exposure are experienced," said Poison Control. "It is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, and potentially dangerous gas. You cant see it or smell it."

Its typical for smoke detectors to be in homes, but despite the fact that a carbon monoxide detector can save lives, they are often left to the homeowner to purchase and install. "Each year in the United States, more than 200 accidental deaths are caused by carbon monoxide CO poisoning. It is considered the leading cause of death from poisoning in the United States."nbsp;Compare the most recommended units on The Spruce.