Avoiding those “killer” falls

According to the Home Safety Council, falls are by far the leading cause of unintentional home injury death. Falls account for an average of 5.1 million injuries and nearly 6,000 deaths each year. The vast majority of fall deaths occur among people age 65 and older and fall death rates are higher for males.

Here are a few tips to help minimize your risk:

• Have handrails on both sides of stairs and steps, from the top to the bottom of stairs.
• Have lots of lights at the top and bottom of the stairs.
• Tape small rugs to the floor or do not use them at all.
• Keep the stairs clear.
• Have nightlights in the bedroom, hall and bathroom.
• Have a mat or non-slip strips in the tub and shower.
• Have grab bars in the tub and shower.
• Wipe up spills when they happen.
• Use safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs.
• Have window guards on upstairs windows to help keep a child from falling out the window.
• Cover the ground under playground equipment with 9-12 inches of mulch, wood chips or other safety material.
• Outdoors, put bright lights over all porches and walkways.
• Put ladders away after using them. Store them on their sides, in a shed or garage.
• Keep sidewalks and paths clear, so you don’t trip.
• Fix broken or chipped steps and walkways as soon as possible.
• If you live alone, consider a “life alert” type bracelet or necklace that would let you summon help if you can’t get up after a fall.