12 Home Safety Mistakes You Didn’t Know You Were Making

This post may contain affiliate links.

Our homes are supposed to be the safest place in the world, however, even the most careful homeowner may not realize that they are making safety mistakes. When everything seems to be going well, you’d probably miss some details as you focus on your daily routines. But because nothing has gone wrong yet in the home, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re safe.

Different simple, daily habits can put you or your loved ones in danger without you even noticing. So let’s have a quick look at some of the more common but often overlooked home safety slip ups.

Using Old Electrical Cords and Outlets

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Have you ever clung to an old power strip or outlet adapter because it’s still functional? Old or damaged electrical cords and outlets are silent hazards. Older wiring can’t keep up with the power requirements of today’s appliances, and frayed cords are a really big fire risk. It’s time to say goodbye to that old extension cord from the 90s and invest in safer modern alternatives.

Not Worrying About Smoke Alarm Batteries

Not Checking Smoke Alarms
Photo Credit: Pexels

Smoke alarms save lives but most people don’t check them. For some reason, it’s one of those things that gets lost in the cracks until you’re jolted awake at 2 am by that offensive beep. Don’t wait till it doesn’t work anymore! Test your smoke detectors monthly and replace their batteries regularly, even if they appear to function.

Leaving Appliances Plugged in When They Aren’t Used

Power Strips & Extension Cords
Photo Credit: Pexels

Leaving your phone charger plugged in all day and such little things can be a big risk. Even if you turn off the appliance, it can still draw power and be a fire hazard. Unplug electronics once they’re done—and make it a habit—to deplete unnecessary energy. For instance, unplug a high wattage item like a hair dryer or toaster that you don’t need right away. This is a simple habit that would help prevent a major accident.

Storage of Cleaning Supplies Done Improperly

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

You may keep cleaning products under the sink or in closets, but are your cleaning products stored safely? Most people don’t know that common household cleaners can be toxic if they leak, or if mixed with other things. Instead of leaving them out, you can store them in child proof, secure places to keep out accidental poisoning or chemical reactions. This is especially true if you have little ones or pets running around too.

Using Space Heaters Unsafely

Photo Credit: Pikwizard

While they are wonderful little heat generators during the winter, space heaters can be very dangerous if you are not careful. We have many fires because people put their heaters too close to things that catch on fire, like curtains or furniture. To prevent fires, you should always keep at least three feet of space away from anything that could catch fire around your space heater and never leave it unattended when you’re out of the room or sleeping.

Failure to Secure Rugs and Carpets

Photo Credit: Pexels

Many people have had moments where they almost trip over the corner of the rug. One of the top reasons for falls in the home is loose rugs or poorly placed carpets. If you have rugs in high traffic areas like hallways and living rooms, you should use rug grippers or anti slip pads to keep them in place. But it’s a small adjustment that could avert a serious tumble.

Not Paying Attention to Your Home’s Carbon Monoxide Detector

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, silent killer, and many homes are missing a detector — or their detector has a dead battery. According to the U.S Environmental Protection Agency, you can’t detect this gas with your senses. Test your home’s carbon monoxide detector and make sure it’s working, then test it regularly. This is one of the simplest ways I know of to protect your family from a hidden danger.

Cluttered Stairways and Hallways

19 Secret Hiding Spots That Will Fool The Smartest Burglars
Photo Credit:Srattha Nualsate/Pexels

Piles of shoes, toys or random items near the stairs or in hallways are trip hazards but easy to let happen. A nasty fall can be waiting for you with one misstep, especially in dim lighting or when your not paying attention. Clear the clutter regularly. If you’ve got kids, turning tidying up into a game could make it less of a chore and more of a fun routine.

Overlooking Bathroom Safety

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Bathrooms are one of the most dangerous places in the house for slips and falls. Non slip mats in the shower or bath, grab bars and handrails are simple additions that can make all the difference. This is one place where prevention really does pay off—don’t wait until an accident happens to think about safety here.

Not Locking Doors and Windows All the Time

Photo Credit: Pexels

Many are guilty of leaving a window open for “just for a minute” or forgetting to lock the back door when we’re in a hurry. Unfortunately, burglars also know and count on these habits. Get in the habit of checking all windows and doors before leaving the house, or before you go to bed. An unlocked door is an invitation even in safe neighborhoods.

Extension Cords Used Improperly

Devices That Should Never Be Plugged Into Your Power Strip
Photo Credit: Ivy Main/Wikimedia Commons

Daisy chaining extension cords together to get enough outlets is a big fire hazard. It’s not healthy to have to rely on extension cords as a permanent solution; especially if you overload them and they start to heat up. It’s much safer to install new outlets if you have more outlets than you have cords to run to them, rather than relying on a rat’s nest of cords to reach them. Just better safe than sorry, yeah?

Let Your Dryer Vent Get Clogged

15 Uncommon But Simple Home Repairs You Can DIY to Save Big
Photo Credit: Ucpage/Pexels

According to Germania Insurance, one of the most common causes of house fires, and the one that’s often overlooked, is clogged dryer vents. Even though it seems harmless, it is incredibly flammable, and litter builds up faster than you’d think. Clean your dryer’s lint filter after every use and don’t forget to look in and clean the vent regularly. It’s a chore that could save your home from a fire that could be deadly.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

Affordable Home Entertainment: 11 Must-Have Finds For Enhancing Your Family Movie Nights

Affordable Home Entertainment: 11 Must-Have Finds For Enhancing Your Family Movie Nights

How to Clean Your Smoker Grill Combo Like a Pro

Image Credit: Shutterstock

How to Clean Your Smoker Grill Combo Like a Pro

15 Common Mistakes That Unknowingly Make

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

15 Common Mistakes That Unknowingly Make Your Home Look Bad

Bring Nature Indoors with These DIY Terrarium Ideas

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Bring Nature Indoors with These DIY Terrarium Ideas

Similar Posts