What does safety actually mean? “Safety is both being physically safe from harm as well as actively avoiding situations with recognized hazards to keep yourself safe.” No matter where you are safety should never be overlooked and it starts in the home.
Here are some helpful safety tips to begin practicing while at home and during your daily routine:
- Be careful when walking to your car at night. Stay in well-lit areas, walk with others, and always be aware of your surroundings.
- Utilize your phone as a safety tool; make sure you have all your emergency contact info programmed into your phone so it’s quick and easy to access.
- Be cautious and trust your gut when dealing with people through online services; always agree to meet in public places and only exchange goods, services, or money in person.
- Check your fire and carbon monoxide detectors regularly to make sure to replace the batteries as needed.
- Make sure light bulbs are the correct wattage for the lamp you’re using. Incorrect wattage is the number one reason for electrical fires!
- Create an emergency kit for your car in case you break down and have to wait a while for help to arrive; water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and matches are a great start.
- Periodically revisit emergency contact lists and meeting areas with your child to make sure they know what to do in case of emergencies.
- If you’re going hiking, or for a walk or run – make a trip plan for your family members saying where you’re going and when you expect to be back; if you’re not home when you’re expected, they’ll have some information on where to look for you.
- Never leave cooking food unattended. Fires can start quickly, particularly if grease is involved! Being present physically and mentally while cooking will ensure you’re able to react quickly if something does catch on fire.
