Falls are the second-leading cause of unintentional death in homes and communities, resulting in more than 25,000 fatalities in 2009, according to the National Safety Council.
The risk of falling rises with age and is a serious issue for the elderly in homes and communities. Take time to remove fall hazards from your home or your elderly loved ones home. Here are the most common locations for falls and some simple steps you can take to prevent them:
1. Doorways: Secure all electrical and phone cords around these areas.
2. Ramps: Make sure every ramp in your home or in your loved ones home is correctly installed and there no breaks in the ramp.
3. Cluttered Hallways: Keep all hallways clear of newspapers, toys, canes, etc. Remove small throw rugs or use non-skid mats
4. Uneven surfaces: Repair damages where necessary.
5. Areas prone to wetness or spills: Use a non-skid mat in these areas.
6. Unguarded Heights: Never stand on a chair, table, or other unstable surface. Always use a step ladder.
7. Ladders: Make sure your ladder is on a stable, flat surface and you are comfortable performing the task at hand before stepping onto a ladder.
8. Stairs: Never clutter stairs and remove any loose carpeting.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a slip, trip or fall accident due to the negligence of a property owner, contact Finkelstein & Partners for your free consultation today.
Mr. Finkelstein is the Managing Partner of Finkelstein & Partners, LLP. He has become a noted consumer activist through his representation of injured individuals against corporate wrongdoers and irresponsible parties.
An accomplished litigator, Mr. Finkelstein has represented Plaintiffs in wrongful death and catastrophic personal injury cases. He has successfully handled dozens of multi-million dollar cases.