No need to gaze into a crystal ball or consult a Ouija board. It hardly requires any mystical talents to predict and avoid your next household mishaps. Just plan and think ahead.
For example, that throw rug that warms and brightens your hallway, you know the one that slides a little when you walk across it? A dab or two of double-sided tape and poof – it won’t even move. While we’re talking about rugs, fraying edges and loose ends can trip you up, too. So clip them, fasten down the edges or replace the rug.
Overloaded electrical outlets predict fires. And a hodgepodge of electrical cords can put a glitch in the most steady of gaits. Place non-skid mats in and outside of bathtubs and showers. When done, mop up any excess water immediately.
In the kitchen place an absorbent mat in front of the sink to catch escaping suds. Keep countertops dry and mop up any spills that bypass the mat. When cooking, always face handles away from the front of the stove to avoid scalding.
Every six months change and test fire alarm batteries. Find a special date such as a birthday, anniversary or holiday to do this so that you will remember.
Prepare earthquake and medical kits containing aspirin, bandages and any prescription medication.
Your local fire or health department can give you ideas on what to pack. Keep these in an easily assessable location and while we are on the subjects of earthquakes, fires and mudslides — California living — pick a meeting place a safe distance from your house so that you know everyone has gotten out safely. Do this in advance and every so after, have a dry run.
And just like magic, without one slight of hand or wave of wand, you have transformed your home into a safety haven and your household future has become a safe one.
Kristin Pitts, owner of Limelight Healthcare, is a Healthcare Administrator and Professional Home Care Coordinator for L.A. County. She can be reached at 661-476-5859.