Free Resource
Home Safety Checklist
General fall-prevention and home-safety guidance you can walk through room by room. Print it, mark what needs attention, and bring it to your evaluation.
This is standard aging-in-place safety guidance — not a substitute for a professional in-home assessment. Use the print button to save it as a PDF or take a paper copy through your home.
Walkways & Pathways
- Main walking paths are at least 36 inches wide and free of clutter
- Electrical and phone cords are routed away from walking paths
- Furniture is arranged so there is a clear path from bedroom to bathroom
- Pet bowls, toys and baskets are kept out of travel routes
- Floor transitions between rooms are flush or gently beveled
Lighting
- Every room has a light switch reachable from the doorway
- Night lights are installed in hallways, bathrooms and bedrooms
- Stairways are lit at both the top and the bottom
- Burned-out bulbs are replaced promptly; bulbs are bright and glare-free
- A working flashlight or lamp is within reach of the bed
Bathroom Safety
- Grab bars are installed at the toilet and inside the tub or shower
- Grab bars are anchored into solid blocking, not just drywall
- Towel bars and soap dishes are never used for support
- A non-slip mat or slip-resistant surface is in the tub or shower
- A shower chair or transfer bench is available if standing is tiring
- Water heater is set to 120°F or lower to prevent scalding
- Toilet height allows sitting and standing without straining
Stairs & Handrails
- Sturdy handrails run the full length of every staircase
- Handrails are on both sides of the stairs where possible
- Step edges are visible, with contrasting tape or trim if needed
- Carpet or treads are firmly attached with no loose edges
- Nothing is stored on the steps
Rugs & Flooring
- Throw rugs are removed or secured with non-slip backing
- Carpet edges are tacked down and free of ripples
- Floors are kept dry; spills are cleaned immediately
- Slip-resistant flooring is used in kitchens and bathrooms
Entryways & Thresholds
- Entry steps have a secure handrail
- Door thresholds are low or fitted with a threshold ramp
- Porch and entry lighting works and is switched from inside
- There is a level landing to stand on while unlocking the door
- Door hardware is lever-style and easy to grip
- At least one entrance is usable with a walker or wheelchair
Bedroom & Living Areas
- Bed height allows feet to rest flat on the floor when seated
- A lamp and phone are reachable without getting out of bed
- Chairs and sofas are firm, with armrests to push up from
- Frequently used items are stored between waist and shoulder height
Kitchen
- Everyday dishes and food are stored within easy reach
- A sturdy step stool with a handrail is used instead of chairs
- Stove controls are easy to see and reach without leaning over burners
- A fire extinguisher and working smoke alarm are nearby
Emergency Preparedness
- Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are tested monthly
- Emergency numbers are posted in large print near a phone
- A medical alert device or charged phone is carried or kept close
- A trusted neighbor or family member has a spare key
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