A Safer Home for Every Generation
Practical guidance, checklists, and trusted resources to help protect children, seniors, and people with disabilities in the place they call home.
Who Are You Making a Home Safe For?
Select an area below to jump directly to guidance tailored to your needs.
Children
From curious toddlers to active teens, homes hold hidden hazards. Learn how to childproof every room and prevent common accidents before they happen.
View children's tips →Senior Citizens
Falls, poor lighting, and hard-to-reach items pose real risks. Simple modifications can help older adults stay safe, comfortable, and independent at home.
View senior tips →Disabled Persons
Whether managing mobility, vision, or cognitive challenges, thoughtful home design and safety solutions can make all the difference in daily life.
View accessibility tips →Safety Tips & Guides
Browse by audience — practical advice you can act on today.
Lock away cleaners and chemicals
Store all cleaning products, detergents, and medications in locked cabinets out of reach. Consider magnetic cabinet locks for lower cabinets.
Install safety gates
Use hardware-mounted gates at the top of stairs and pressure-mounted gates at the bottom. Check that gate bars are no more than 3 inches apart.
Cover all outlets
Use tamper-resistant outlet covers or replace standard outlets with tamper-resistant receptacles. These are required in new construction and highly recommended for all homes.
Set water heater to 120°F or below
Scalding is a leading cause of burns in children. Lowering your water heater temperature can prevent serious injuries at the tap.
Anchor heavy furniture to walls
Dressers, bookshelves, and televisions can tip over when climbed on. Use anti-tip straps or brackets to secure them to wall studs.
Install window guards or stops
Children can fall from open windows. Use window stops to limit openings to 4 inches, or install guards ensuring they can be released in an emergency.
Add grab bars near the toilet and shower
Grab bars provide crucial support for standing and sitting. Make sure they are properly anchored into wall studs, not just drywall.
Remove throw rugs and tripping hazards
Loose rugs, cords, and clutter are the leading cause of falls. Secure or remove rugs, and use non-slip mats in the bathroom and kitchen.
Improve lighting throughout the home
Install nightlights in hallways, bathrooms, and bedrooms. Motion-sensor lights are especially helpful for nighttime trips to the bathroom.
Organize frequently used items within easy reach
Store everyday dishes and foods at counter height to avoid the need for step stools or reaching overhead, which increases fall risk.
Ensure sturdy handrails on both sides
Handrails should run the full length of the staircase and be easy to grip. Consider adding contrasting tape on stair edges for better visibility.
Keep emergency numbers visible
Post emergency contacts on the refrigerator and by the phone. Consider a medical alert device for additional peace of mind when living alone.
Create a step-free entrance
Install a ramp or threshold ramp at entryways. Ensure the door width is at least 32 to 36 inches to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility devices.
Install a roll-in shower or walk-in tub
A curbless shower with a fold-down bench and handheld showerhead can greatly improve independence and safety for those with mobility limitations.
Choose smooth, slip-resistant flooring
Hardwood, low-pile carpet, and textured tile provide better traction and easier mobility device navigation than thick carpet or uneven surfaces.
Reposition switches and outlets
Light switches, thermostats, and outlets should ideally be mounted between 18 and 48 inches from the floor for wheelchair users. Rocker-style switches are easier to operate.
Lower countertops and create knee clearance
A portion of the kitchen counter at 28 to 34 inches allows wheelchair users to work comfortably. Pull-out shelves improve access to lower cabinets.
Use high-contrast visual cues
For those with vision impairment, use contrasting colors on edges, door frames, and switches. Tactile indicators on appliance controls can also help greatly.
Room-by-Room Safety Checklists
Print these out or work through them on your device — room by room, step by step.
Recommended Safety Products
Top-rated products across all three categories — click a tab to browse by audience.
Safety 1st Magnetic Cabinet Locks
Magnetic key system keeps cabinets locked without visible hardware.
Search on Amazon →Regalo Easy Step Walk Thru Gate
Hardware-mounted, JPMA-certified gate with a one-hand open feature.
Search on Amazon →Childproof Outlet Covers by BabyBjorn
Tamper-resistant plug covers that require a two-step adult motion to remove.
Search on Amazon →Anti-Tip Furniture Straps
Heavy-duty straps anchor dressers, bookshelves, and TVs to wall studs.
Search on Amazon →Munchkin White Hot Bath Thermometer
Floating thermometer that turns white when water exceeds 102 degrees F.
Search on Amazon →KidCo Window Guards
Adjustable window safety guards that prevent falls while allowing ventilation.
Search on Amazon →Moen Home Care Grab Bars
Stainless steel grab bars rated to 500 lbs. Available in multiple lengths and finishes.
Search on Amazon →Medical Guardian Alert Device
Wearable alert button with 24/7 emergency monitoring and fall detection.
Search on Amazon →Maxxima Motion Sensor Nightlights
LED nightlights with dusk-to-dawn and motion sensing for hallways and bathrooms.
Search on Amazon →Vaunn Medical Toilet Safety Rail
Adjustable steel safety frame that fits most standard toilets. Supports up to 300 lbs.
Search on Amazon →Non-Slip Grip Socks
Hospital-grade non-slip socks with rubber grips on both sides. Washable.
Search on Amazon →Drive Medical Shower Chair
Lightweight aluminum shower seat with adjustable height and back support.
Search on Amazon →Prairie View Industries Folding Ramp
Lightweight aluminum folding ramp for wheelchairs and scooters. Supports up to 800 lbs.
Search on Amazon →Shower Transfer Bench
Adjustable transfer bench that bridges the gap between wheelchair and shower.
Search on Amazon →High-Contrast Outlet Covers
High-visibility outlet and switch covers in bright white or yellow for low vision.
Search on Amazon →Kwikset Lever Door Handle Set
ADA-compliant lever-style handles easier to operate for those with limited grip strength.
Search on Amazon →Stander EZ Adjust Bed Rail
Adjustable bed assist rail that fits most bed frames without tools.
Search on Amazon →Amazon Echo Smart Speaker
Voice-controlled smart speaker that controls lights, locks, and thermostats hands-free.
Search on Amazon →Product links search Amazon for current availability and pricing. We recommend reading reviews and verifying specifications before purchasing.
Professional Resources & Organizations
Trusted organizations offering expert guidance, support, and additional tools.
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Safety alerts, recall information, and home safety guides for all ages.
Visit cpsc.gov →National Council on Aging
Fall prevention programs, home safety resources, and senior wellness tools.
Visit ncoa.org →ADA National Network
Guidance on accessibility standards, home modifications, and disability rights.
Visit adata.org →Safe Kids Worldwide
Research-based injury prevention programs and resources specifically for children.
Visit safekids.org →AARP Home & Family
Home modification guides, aging-in-place planning tools, and caregiver resources.
Visit aarp.org →CDC – Injury Prevention
Data-driven safety resources including fall prevention for older adults.
Visit cdc.gov →