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Tips to make your kitchen senior safe

Safety in the home should be an important consideration for all seniors.

The fact is that falls and other household accidents can happen anytime and anyplace to people of any age. However, most accidents by seniors occur in the home during everyday, routine activities. By practicing good safety habits and staying alert, many of these accidents can be prevented.

By its very nature, the kitchen can be a dangerous place where accidents, falls and fires can occur. However, practicing some simple, common-sense safety habits will help you avoid these potential dangers. 

Here are some tips to make your kitchen senior safe and reduce the risk of injuries, accidents and fires:

• Install a smoke detector in your kitchen.
• Keep a fire extinguisher in your kitchen, and make sure you know how to use it.
• Store food, utensils and other frequently-used items at a convenient height. Avoid climbing or reaching for high shelves, and don't stand on ladders or chairs.
• Store heavier objects at waist level.
• Store hazardous items separate from food.
• Avoid using floor polish or wax to reduce slick surfaces on the floor and the risk of a slip and fall.
• Close cabinets and drawers when done.
• Never overload electrical outlets. When an appliance isn't in use, unplug it.
• Remove electrical or telephone cords from traffic areas.
• Don't allow appliance cords to dangle over the edge of counter tops or tables. You may inadvertently catch them.
• To prevent slips, clean up spills as soon as they happen.
• When cooking on the stove, always turn the pot handles towards the back and away from the edge of the stove.
• Never cook with loose-fitting clothing. They can catch on fire.
• Always use a hot pad or mitt.
• Provide good lighting near your stove.
• Avoid kitchen fires by cleaning your stove exhaust hood and utensils regularly to eliminate grease build-up.
• Store flammable and combustible items away from the range and oven.
• If you have windows near your stove, use fireproof curtains.
• Make sure towels, napkins, curtains and other objects that might catch fire are located away from the stove.

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Volusia County, Florida.