It is vital for homeowners to be aware of the safety hazards around their home. This is because it is rightly said that "most accidents happen at home." To deal with these hazards, you must first be aware of them and the solutions to them.There can be instances wherein you won’t be aware of these hazards when they are right in front of your eyes.

By being proactive and knowing what to look for, homeowners can help keep themselves and their household safe from potentially dangerous situations. It is always advised to have a simple understanding of the common safety hazards so that you can take steps that will reduce your risk of injury or property damage.

The points below discuss some common home safety hazards and how to avoid them so that you are aware and can take appropriate precautions in the event of a mishap. 

Unpermitted work

Unpermitted work includes any changes or additions to the home that are made without obtaining permits; even if the work is minor, unpermitted work can pose a serious home safety hazard and lead to structural damage and fire hazards. As a result, determining whether the home for sale contains any unpermitted work is an important factor to consider when purchasing a home. To remediate unpermitted work, the home owners should try and get proper permits from their local municipality. Once this is done, a licensed contractor can complete the job.

Trip hazards 

The most common type of home accident is a fall. There are several ways in which falls can be prevented, such as the removal of trip hazards, the installation of handrails near stairs, and the improvement of lighting inside and outside the home. Indoors, common tripping hazards include area rugs, electrical cords, and loose floorboards. Outside, it includes cracked sidewalks, potholes, and uneven steps that can be dangerous. To deal with tripping hazards at your home, tuck away loose rugs and cords as soon as you notice them. Additionally, you should check for loose boards and screws regularly. Improving the lighting can also reduce the chances of falling. So, it is advised to install adequate lighting both inside and outside the home.

Poor ventilation

Poor ventilation can lead to mould growth, condensation, and indoor air pollution. One way to keep the home air quality good is to keep the windows open on a regular basis. This helps with the circulation of air. Installing exhaust fans in areas where moisture buildup is a concern, such as your kitchen and bathroom, is also a solution. Another way to improve the ventilation of your home is to maintain your home’s HVAC system. Get your system serviced by a professional at least once a year so that you can be assured of its functionality.

Electrical hazards

Outdated wiring, overloaded circuits, and improper grounding are common electrical home hazards that can lead to fires, shocks, and electrocution. You can prevent electrical dangers if you get your home inspected by a certified electrician. This is because they might catch something that can be a potential cause of danger, and at the same time they will also take steps to remedy it. You also need to make sure that you do not overload the circuits by plugging in too many devices simultaneously. Practice extension cord safety by not running cords under rugs or furniture and by using outlets that have child safety covers.

Fire hazards

Fire hazards such as open flames, flammable liquids, and faulty electrical wiring can be present at home. To prevent household fires, never leave open flames unattended and keep flammable liquids stored in proper containers. Consider installing smoke detectors on every level of your home and outside all sleeping areas. Get them tested monthly, and replace the batteries at least once a year.

So, consider these safety hazards and make your home a safe place to live in. You can even get in touch with us to get your home tested for potential hazards.