Here are some tips to help you identify hazards and optimise safety enhance falls safety inside your home:

Adequate lighting - Are staircases and landings well lit? It's important to have enough light to spot any potential hazards. Make sure that light switches are easily accessible; two-way switches can help with this. You can seek the support of a handyperson to help if needed.

Stairway stability -  If you have stairs, do you feel safe and steady when using them? Always use the handrail, and consider installing a second one if you need more support. A local handyperson can assist in adding additional handrails with this if needed. Consider minimising journeys up and down the stairs if you’re feeling unsteady or tired. If you use a walking frame, make sure you have one on each level, as it is not safe to carry these on the stairs.

Clear pathways - Throughout the house, it’s important to create enough space to move around and access all of the rooms freely without obstacles in the way. Keep your pathways clear by rearranging furniture and removing any clutter, and seek assistance if needed. If you have a walking aid, always use it as instructed.

Floor hazards - Objects like papers, magazines, books, shoes, boxes, blankets, towels, or other items on the floor are all potential trip hazards. It's important to keep the floor clear of items such as these. Consider using a ‘helping hand’ tool to reduce stooping or overreaching if needed.

Cord and wire management - Do you have to walk over or around cords or wires, such as those from lamps, extension leads, or telephones? These can cause you to trip, and it’s important that they are tucked away and secured down. If needed, consult an electrician to install additional sockets. For fire safety, consider a home safety check from your local fire brigade, which can provide advice and fit smoke alarms if required.

Letterbox convenience - Do you have a letterbox cage to avoid stooping to pick up letters? Installing one is an easy solution that not only saves you from stooping but also prevents papers from spreading across the floor just inside the doorway. You can find these at DIY stores or online, and a local handyperson can assist with installation if needed.

Loose rugs - Loose rugs or runners can be a big trip hazard, particularly if they move on the floor or have curled edges. The safest option is to remove these altogether. However, at the very least, these should be taped down or secured with a non-slip mat underneath.

Calling for assistance - If you fall, do you have a plan for calling for assistance? This is particularly important if you live by yourself. It’s a sensible idea to carry a mobile phone or have a landline telephone that you can reach from floor level.  A pendant alarm is another reliable option, as you can wear it on your wrist or around your neck. 

Carpet condition - Are your carpets in good condition and not frayed? Worn carpets are a significant falls risk and should either be replaced or secured as soon as possible.

For adaptations and other solutions, including handrails, consider speaking to organisations specialising in home modifications or social services. Their expertise can help ensure your home is a safe and functional space.

Links and Resources

Home Adaptations

Contact your local Handyperson Service for support with minor adaptations such as additional handrails.

Millbrook Healthcare is currently the Handyperson Service for those who fall under Reigate & Banstead Council, Mole Valley Council, and Tandridge Council.

Telephone: 03301 243 758

Text/SMS: 07723 434 387

Email: SurreyHIAContactUS@millbrookhealthcare.co.uk

Millbrook Healthcare: Website

Find your local council

Surrey County Council have developed an online home equipment finder to help older people stay independent and living in their own home.

Surrey County Council: Home Equipment Finder

Managing at Home

For information on helping you stay independent at home visit Stay Independent on Surrey County Council’s website.

Complete the Adult with Support Needs Form if you, or the person you are completing this form for, live in Surrey and have care and support needs. It will help you find out what support you could get from the council. 

If you feel you are struggling to manage at home due to changes in your mobility, contact your GP and ask to be referred for assessment for rehabilitation.

Fire Safety 

Please visit the Surrey Fire and Rescue Service website to complete their free online home fire-safety check. This will generate a bespoke fire safety plan, include escape plans and where to install smoke detection. 

If you are considered at risk from the answers you submit, a member of Surrey Fire and Rescue Service will be in touch to offer you a free "Safe and Well Visit" to assist you with all your fire safety needs.

Surrey Fire and Rescue Service: Online Safety Check

Call Freephone : 0800 085 0767

Text/SMS: 07971 691 898