Home Safety

Your kitchen can be a bustling area, but it's crucial to maintain safety to minimise your risk of falling. Our easy-to-follow advice helps you identify hazards and enhance safety in the kitchen.

General Advice

Is there a risk of falling on wet flooring, especially near the sink and washing machine?

Non-slip mats, a fitted carpet or carpet tiles should be used.  Wet floor areas should be mopped as soon as possible.

Is everything within easy reach without stretching or climbing on chairs/stools, etc?

Stretching and reaching above head height can make you feel dizzy, and there is a temptation to climb up on chairs to reach something. Things, which are used regularly, should be on the ‘easy to reach shelves’.

Equipment Safety

If steps have to be used, are they secure with a handrail and system to keep the legs locked?

Never use a chair or a stool to stand on. Properly designed steps can be used in reasonable safety if you are fit enough. They must be designed with an effective handrail and with an easily applied lock for the legs. If possible, ask someone else to help.

Do you struggle to carry items from the kitchen to the dining area?

You might benefit from a kitchen trolley. Trolleys are not recommended as a walking aid they are to carry items from one place to another. If you are unsteady on your feet you will need an assessment to see if a trolley is safe for you to use.

Fire Safety

• Chuck out your chip pan – they are very dangerous and cause thousands of fires each year across the UK.
• Stand by your pan – make sure you don't get distracted when cooking. If you need to leave the room, turn it off.
• Don't put metal in the microwave.
• Don't wear loose clothing when cooking and keep tea towels away from the hob.
• Washers and Dryers can cause fires, so only use them when in the home and switch them off when not in use.

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Useful Links and Contacts

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Help and Contacts

Find local and national services that can offer advice, support, and practical help. Whether you’re looking for someone to speak to, equipment for your home, or help finding the right activity, this section brings useful contacts together in one place.

Find help and contacts

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Local Rehabilitation Teams

Find local contact details for NHS and community teams across the Devon area that support people struggling to manage at home. These services may include further assessments, rehabilitation, and home visits to help reduce your risk.

Find local rehabilitation teams

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Local Support Services

Find local services that offer advice, support, and practical help to stay safe, independent, and well at home, including help with equipment and mobility, home safety, care support, and general advice about ageing well in Devon.

Find local services

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Telecare and Alarms

Find services that provide personal alarms, telecare equipment and other ways to get help if you fall or need urgent support at home. These services can help you stay independent and feel safer on a day-to-day basis.

Find local telecare and alarms services

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