INJURY PREVENTION QUIZ
Dr. Gail Carlson, University of Missouri-Columbia

Read each question below and respond either "yes" or "no" for each item to see how safe your home is.

1. Are your electrical extension and telephone cords securely out of the way to prevent people from tripping over them?
2. Are your electrical cords in good condition, not frayed or cracked?
3. Are small rugs and runners slip resistant?
4. Have you posted emergency numbers and your address on or near each phone?
5. Do you have good even lighting over the stove, sink, and countertops where you cook?
6. Do you have night lights in your hallways, bathrooms and bedrooms to help you find your way in the dark?
7. Do you have a working smoke detector on every floor?  Do you regularly test the batteries?
8. Is your hot water thermostat at 120 degrees or below to prevent you from accidentally scalding yourself?
9. Does your bathtub have nonskid treads and grab bars to help you avoid slipping?
10. Do you have light switches installed at the top and bottom of stairwells, and handrails on both sides?

Your home can be hazardous to your health. If you answered "no" to any of these questions take steps to correct the problems. Regardless of age the leading causes of injury deaths in the home are falls and fires. Protect yourself and your family by making sure that you can answer yes to all the questions in the home safety checklist you just completed.