Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

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Older Adults

It is said that with age comes wisdom. But no matter how old or wise a person you are, the smartest choice you can ever make is to always keep safety in mind when using products that can present safety hazards.

Last year, more than one million people over the age 65 were treated in hospital emergency rooms for injuries associated with products they live with and use everyday. With the senior population in our country soaring and the "baby boomers" closing in on their sixties, this number of injuries could easily double over the next 20 years. That's why it's important for you to start spotting safety hazards and taking some simple steps to correct them--before you become a senior statistic!

Take a walk through your home, and use the following checklist to spot possible safety hazards. When/if you spot a potential problem, take the appropriate action to fix it IMMEDIATELY! Don't put it off 'til later... because you may forget about it until an accident or injury reminds you!

  • Kitchen -- Make sure all your appliances bear the UL Mark. Check the range/stove area; all electrical cords for fraying/cracking; step stools for splitting/cracking materials; and throw rugs for tripping hazards like bumps and turned-up corners.
  • Living Room -- Check all rugs and runners; electrical cords; lamps and other lighting; inspect the fireplace and chimney for fire hazards; and make sure all passageways are clear.
  • Bathroom -- Make sure all small appliances bear the UL Mark. Check bathtub/shower, rugs and mats for slipping hazards; the water for possible burn hazard; and cabinets for safe storage of medications.
  • Bedrooms -- Check rugs and runners; electrical and telephone cords; and make sure the area around the bed is clear of items that could cause tripping.
  • Basement/Garage/Workshop -- Make sure all power tools bear the UL Mark. Check fuse and breaker boxes for possible malfunction and shock/fire hazards; cords on tools and extension cords; and lawn/garden tools and supplies. Check for proper ventilation and make sure flammable liquids are stored properly.
  • Stairs -- Check for proper lighting on/around stairways; handrails and steps for possible defects/weaknesses; and stair coverings for possible tripping hazards.

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