Slip and fall injuries can leave you down and out for some time, affecting you physically, emotionally, and financially. I frequently help clients who have had the misfortune of injuring themselves in a slip and fall accident.

One place that I have found is often the site of slip and fall accidents is the home. Fortunately, these accidents can typically be prevented. You have complete control of the environment in your home, and you can make it as safe as possible for yourself, family, and guests. Below are some tips from the National Safety Council that can help prevent a slip and fall accident in your home, which you could be held liable for.

Let’s begin in the bedroom. Choose a bed that is easy to get in and out of. Place your lamp and phone close to your bed where they’re easy to reach. Arrange your clothes in your closet so that they’re easy to reach, and put a night-light in the room so that you can see where you’re walking in the dark.

In the living room and other communal areas, arrange the furniture so that you have clear walkways. Remove area or throw rugs, or use non-slip backing tape so that the rugs won’t move. Keep electrical cords out of walking areas, and install light switches at the entrance of rooms so that you don’t have to walk across a dark room to turn on the light. Keep clutter like papers, boxes, and shoes away from pathways as well.

In the bathroom, place a slip-resistant rug next to the tub or shower so that you can enter and exit safely. Install grab bars for support inside the tub and next to the toilet, and replace glass shower doors with non-shattering materials. In the shower or tub, also place a non-slip rubber mat or non-skid adhesive on the floor.

For safety in the kitchen, do not stand on boxes or chairs to reach high cupboards; use a stool with a bar. Even better, store food, dishes, and cooking utensils in easy-to-reach places. Immediately clean up any spills on the floor.

Stairways in the house need to be clear of any objects at all times. Uneven or broken steps should be fixed, and there should be enough lighting to see all steps and both landings. Make sure that carpet is firmly attached to every step and that handrails are securely fastened to both sides of the stairway.

As a personal injury attorney, I see countless accidents that could have been avoided had some precautions been taken. Follow these steps to ensure that you, your family, and guests are safe in your home.

If you have any questions about slip and fall injuries or have been injured in a slip and fall accident, contact an experienced personal injury attorney.