Observed every year in June, National Safety Month focuses on reducing leading causes of injury and death at work, on the roads, and in homes and communities.
According to the National Safety Council, more than 92 preventable deaths occur each day. National Safety Month raises awareness about the safety risks that all age groups in the population face. When it comes to older adults, slips and falls in and around the home is a major problem. In fact, June 20-26 is ‘Watch Out for Dangers’ week and a good time to identify potential slip, trip, and fall hazards in the workplace and at home and take steps to prevent such accidents from occurring.
Prevent Slips/Falls with Quality Accessibility Equipment
A National Safety Council 2016 statistical report on unintentional injuries notes that falls are the leading cause of injury-related death for adults age 65 and older. Falls are the main reason for traumatic brain injury. Of the 20,400 fall-related deaths at home in 2014, most occurred among people over age 65.
The good news is that falls are preventable. Here are some of the measures you can take to reduce the risk of falls in your home or office:
- Remove clutter such as small furniture throw rugs, and anything else that is in the way and can cause trips and falls
- Remove/cover/secure electrical cords
- Make sure that the floors are clean and dry
- Replace loose and unsecured or worn rugs and mats
- Consider installing a stairlift if your loved one has difficulty using the stairs in your home
- Install railings on both sides of stairs
- In the office, encourage workers to avoid carrying loads up the staircase and use the elevator instead
- Educate employees about the importance of using slip-resistant footwear
- Install grab bars in the tub, shower and near the toilet
- Workplaces and commercial buildings that do not have space for an elevator can consider installing a platform lift
- Provide adequate lighting in every area
To get more information and resources about key safety topics, visit http://www.nsc.org/act/events/Pages/national-safety-month.aspx. Celebrate National Safety Month by sharing the materials widely and helping other stay safe always!