Stay Safe, Prevent Falls!
Falls can happen to anyone, but they're especially common—and dangerous—for older adults. Genesee Fire Rescue is committed to helping our community reduce the risk of falls.

Included below is a list of fall prevention tips to make your home safer and your daily activities more secure. From practical home modifications to mindful habits, these suggestions are designed to keep you and your loved ones steady on your feet. Together, we can build a safer, stronger community!

FLOORS

• Ask someone to move the furniture so your path is clear.
• Remove throw rugs or use double-sided tape or a non-slip backing so rugs won’t slip.
• Make sure that things that are on the floor are picked up (especially before you go to bed). Always keep objects off the floor.
• Coil or tape cords and wires next to the wall so you can’t trip over them. If needed, have an electrician put in another outlet.

STAIRS AND STEPS

• Pick up things on the stairs. Always keep objects off stairs.
• Have someone fix loose or uneven steps.
• Make sure that there is an over-head light at the top and bottom of the stairs. And also confirm that there is a light switch at the top and bottom of the stairs (You can also get light switches that glow). If these are missing have an electrician install them as needed.
• Have a friend or family member change any burnt out light bulbs.
• Make sure the carpet is firmly attached to every step, or remove the carpet and attach non-slip rubber treads to the stairs.
• Fix loose handrails or put in new ones. Make sure handrails are on both sides of the stairs and are as long as the stairs.
• Paint a contrasting color on the top edge of all steps so you can see the stairs better. For example, use a light color paint on dark wood.

BEDROOM

• Place a lamp or light in location that is easy to reach from your bed.
• Make sure that your phone is on a nightstand or easily reachable from bed.
• Make sure there is a clear and lighted path from your bed to the nearest bathroom.
• KITCHEN
• Move items in your cabinets. Keep things you use often on the lower shelves (about waist level).
• If you must use a step stool, get one with a bar to hold on to. Never use a chair as a step stool.

BATHROOMS

• Put a non-slip rubber mat or self-stick strips on the floor of the tub or shower.
• When you get in the bathtub or shower lay your phone beside the tub near the floor just in case you fall and can’t get up.
• Install grab bars in your bathtub and shower and near your toilet.

LIGHTING

• Never ever get up and walk around in the dark! Invest in an inexpensive lamp or night light.
• Improve the lighting in your home. Put in brighter light bulbs. LED and florescent bulbs are bright and cost less to use.
• It’s safest to have uniform lighting in a room. Add lighting to dark areas. Hang lightweight curtains or shades to reduce glare.

OTHER THINGS

• Be mindful of pets, extension cords and oxygen tubing!
• Put a “File for Life” on your refrigerator as well as in your purse or wallet.
• Exercise regularly. Exercise makes you stronger and improves your balance and coordination.
• Have your doctor or pharmacist look at all the medicines you take, even over-the-counter medicines. Some medicines can make you sleepy or dizzy.
• Have your vision checked at least once a year by an eye doctor. Poor vision can increase your risk of falling.
• Get up slowly after you sit or lie down.
• Wear properly fitting, sturdy shoes with nonskid soles both inside and outside the house. High heels, floppy slippers, shoes with slick soles, stocking feet or bare feet can make you slip.

If you have questions or for additional resources please contact our Risk Reduction Specialist, Kris Kleiner, at 303-526-1230 x4 or kkleiner@geneseefire.org.