You have just finished moving into your new home. There is a lot of unpacking to do so you can settle down comfortably. Apart from settling down, you should also look into safety. Not everyone puts extra thought into safety as there could be 100 other things they think as more important than their own home safety.

Tubs and flooring should be slip-resistant. Area rugs must have rubberized backing to prevent slips and falls. Grab bars should be firmly attached to the tub and shower areas and the light switch should be installed near each bathroom door.

Carbon monoxide detectors are used to alert you and your family of the presence of potentially lethal carbon monoxide fumes. Carbon monoxide detectors should not be used as a substitute for the proper use and maintenance of all fuel-burning appliances in your home.

Lamp, extension, telephone and computer cords should not be placed in areas of traffic flow or under furniture or carpeting. Make sure to not overload extension cords as it could cause fires.

Plan an alternate emergency exit in case of a fire. When a fire starts, it spreads rapidly. With an evacuation plan in place, everyone will know what to do and that will reduce the unnecessary confusion if an emergency arises. Practice your plan and make sure everyone is able to escape quickly and safely.

Exterior lights, on timers or motion-detectors, gives your home a more “lived-in” look. Burglars are less likely to break into your home if they can be seen from the street or backyard.

It is not enough to just have a fire extinguisher in the house. Everyone should know where it is and how to use it. Check it annually to ensure its functionality and that it is ready for use in an emergency.

The number one cause for falls in the home is tripping over unsecured rugs or runners. Ensure that all floor coverings are secured and slip-resistant.

Bright, glare-free lighting is best. Use the maximum wattage bulbs acceptable for fixtures. Install night lights for added safety and have lamps and phones by the beds.

There should be at least one smoke alarm on each level of your house and batteries should be tested and replaced regularly. Detectors are best placed near bedrooms, either on the ceiling or 6 to 12 inches below the ceiling on the wall. Keep them away from air vents.

Make sure halls and stairways are well lit. Light switches should be located at the top and bottom of staircases. Stairs should be the same height and size. If it is hard to see the edge of the steps, consider fixing some neon coloured tape on it so it can be easily visible.

Reduce the setting on your water heater to LOW or 120 degrees to avoid the risk of scalds or burns.

Now that you have gone through this list, make your home an even safer place to be.

Learn more on how to place furniture for optimal space in your new home.