How Can You Stay Safe at Home? 7 Tips
Home should always be a place of comfort, security and independence, but as we get older, certain everyday tasks can become more challenging. The risk of falls, accidents or even scams can increase, making it important to take steps to create a safe and supportive living environment.
The good news is that small changes can make a big difference. Simple adjustments like improving lighting, securing rugs and installing grab rails can help prevent falls, while staying aware of scams, fire hazards and emergency procedures can bring extra peace of mind.
In this guide, we’ll share seven practical ways to stay safe at home, so you or your loved one can continue enjoying life with confidence and security.
1. Preventing falls and improving mobility
Falls are one of the most common causes of injury for older adults and can have a big impact on confidence and independence. Taking simple steps to reduce fall risks can help make moving around the home safer and more comfortable.
Start by keeping walkways clear. Rearranging furniture and decluttering hallways and exits can prevent trips and make it easier to navigate the home. Secure rugs with non-slip mats or tape and tuck away any loose electrical cords to remove tripping hazards.
Adding grab rails in key areas like the bathroom and along staircases provides extra support when moving around. Handrails on both sides of staircases can also make a big difference in stability.
Good lighting is also essential for preventing falls, especially for those with poor vision. Motion-sensor lights in hallways, staircases and bathrooms can help provide visibility at night, while nightlights in bedrooms can make it easier to get up safely. Replacing dim or burnt-out bulbs quickly ensures every area of the home remains well-lit.
2. Organising and maintaining storage areas
Keeping storage areas tidy and organised not only makes daily life easier but also helps prevent accidents and confusion. Cluttered cupboards, medicine cabinets and pantries can lead to misplaced items, expired products and unnecessary hazards.
Regularly checking and clearing out expired medications is important for safety. Even if some medications are not harmful past their expiration date, they can cause confusion and should be properly disposed of at a local pharmacy. Keeping medicines clearly labelled and stored in a dedicated space helps prevent mix-ups.
Food storage areas should also be checked for out-of-date products that could cause illness if consumed. Keeping shelves organised, rotating and labelling food items clearly can make it easier to find what is needed. Cleaning supplies should always be stored separately from food and utensils to avoid accidental contamination.
3. Preparing for extreme weather conditions
Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can pose serious health risks for older adults. Taking steps to prepare for changes in the weather can help ensure comfort and safety throughout the year.
Before winter sets in, it’s a good idea to test heating systems to make sure they are working properly. Running the heating for a few hours before the cold weather arrives can help detect any issues, such as airlocks in radiators that may need bleeding. If the heating system needs maintenance, it’s always best to call a professional rather than attempt a DIY fix.
Heavy rain, snow and fallen leaves can make outdoor areas slippery and difficult to navigate. Keeping a few easy-to-prepare meals in the freezer means there’s no need to go out during bad weather, reducing the risk of falls outside.
In summer, keeping cool is just as important. Ensuring fans or air conditioning units are in good working order before a heatwave arrives can make a big difference. Staying hydrated and keeping blinds or curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day can also help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
4. Home security and emergency preparedness
Feeling safe at home is just as important as taking care of your physical well-being. Taking steps to improve home security and prepare for emergencies can provide peace of mind and make a home a more secure place to live.
Personal alarm systems are a great way to ensure help is always within reach in case of a fall or emergency. Wearable alarms can be activated with the press of a button, connecting the user to family, carers or emergency services if needed.
Having a spare key with a trusted neighbour, friend or family member can also be helpful in case of emergencies. If someone is unable to answer the door, a trusted person can check in without delay.
Good home security can also help prevent break-ins and provide reassurance. Installing outdoor lighting, visible alarm systems and secure locks on doors and windows can deter potential intruders. Checking that window and door locks are in good condition and replacing any that are worn or faulty adds an extra layer of security.
Learn more about how you can monitor elderly loved ones who live far away in our guide.
5. Avoiding scams and fraud
Unfortunately, scams targeting older adults are becoming more common, particularly over the phone, online and at the doorstep. Being aware of these risks and knowing how to handle suspicious situations can help protect against fraud.
Phone scams often involve callers pretending to be from a bank, energy provider or government agency, asking for personal details or financial information. If an unexpected caller asks for sensitive information, the safest option is to hang up and call the company back using the official number from their website or a previous bill. Legitimate organisations will never ask for PIN numbers or full passwords over the phone.
We have a helpful guide on avoiding scams for elderly people.
6. Being fire safe at home
Fire safety is essential for any home, but it becomes even more important for older adults who may have reduced mobility or slower reaction times. Taking a few precautions can help prevent fires and ensure there’s a clear plan in case of an emergency.
Regularly testing smoke alarms and replacing batteries when needed is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to stay fire safe. Having alarms installed on every floor of the home and in key areas like the kitchen and hallway can provide early warnings in case of a fire.
Keeping exit routes clear is also crucial. Pathways should always be free from clutter to make it easier to evacuate quickly if needed. Having a torch or nightlight by the bed can also help in case of power cuts or emergencies during the night.
For extra protection, fire blankets are a useful addition to the kitchen. They are made from fire-resistant materials and can be used to put out small fires, such as those caused by cooking oil or appliances. When buying a fire blanket, it’s best to look for one that meets British Standards BS EN 1869: 1997 for safety assurance.
7. Checking in and the importance of companionship
Beyond safety measures, one of the most important aspects of well-being for older adults is regular social interaction and support. Loneliness and isolation can have a serious impact on mental and physical health, making it essential to maintain strong connections with family, friends and carers.
Frequent check-ins, whether through home visits, phone calls or video chats, provide reassurance and help ensure that any potential issues—such as safety hazards, health concerns, or emotional distress—are addressed quickly. Even short visits from loved ones or a professional carer can make a huge difference in lifting spirits and reducing stress.
Companionship is more than just company—it plays a key role in helping people stay engaged, mentally active and emotionally supported. Encouraging hobbies, conversations and outings can help older adults stay connected to the world around them.
Talk to our team today
If you or a loved one could benefit from live-in care, speak with one of our friendly team today to explore the best options for your needs.
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