Home Safety Tips for Parents in the Fall

Now that summer is coming to an end, families are thinking about getting their home safe for autumn. Autumn can be an enjoyable time of the year with holidays approaching and colorful changes in the foliage. But it is time to think about the possible hazards around your home that need to be addressed so your family and neighbors will be safe in your yard and in your home.

When the leaves begin to fall from the trees, the hard work begins to remove them from the sidewalk and yard; don’t forget the porch steps and porch itself. If the leaves become wet from a rain shower, they can become slippery and pose a safety hazard. Consider helping older family members up and down the outside steps and walking along wet sidewalks to help prevent injuries.

Raking leaves is a chore that children can have some fun with as they help to clear the yard but you will want to remember the safety rules to keep everyone safe.
1. Wear lace-up shoes and socks to protect your feet and legs.
2. Wear gloves to protect against splinters and blisters when handling the rake.
3. Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from blowing debris from the falling leaves.
4. Lift heavy bags with care by using your legs to lift rather than bending your back.

Another point to remember as fall approaches, natural daylight is shorter in the evenings. When the sun was setting at 9:00 PM in the summer, it is now very dark at that hour. So for safety with your family, carry a flashlight in your car in case of an emergency and carry a small flashlight with you at all times. It would be helpful to leave a porch light on or have a night light plugged in near the sidewalk or porch steps. By planning ahead with these safety tips, you will keep your family free from accidental falls or injuries.