Spring Forward with this Safety Checklist [infographic]

When Daylight Savings Time arrives, it’s time to spring forward and check home safety features. Moving the clock forward each spring provides the perfect yearly reminder to inspect items around the house that can create safety hazards and lead to injuries for family members. If you or a family member was seriously injured due to negligence, call a Las Vegas personal injury lawyer at Cogburn Law Offices today for a free case consultation.

Spring Forward With a Home Safety Checklist

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Family Emergency Plan

Spring is a good time to develop a family emergency plan for natural disasters or other catastrophic events that occur without warning. The National Safety Council recommends an emergency plan that contains contact numbers for family members, an escape plan with different routes, and a shelter plan if outside air is contaminated. They also recommend keeping an emergency kit in the home and car that includes: a first aid kit; a mask; a flashlight with batteries; duct tape; plastic sheeting; medicines; a three-day supply of food; and one gallon of water per day for each person.

Smoke Alarms

The National Fire Protection Association recommends replacing smoke alarm batteries once a year, or immediately if a chirping sounds goes off. There should be a smoke alarm in every bedroom and in common areas on each floor, mounted close to the ceiling and away from windows, doors, air ducts, and stoves to prevent false alarms. Smoke alarms can be wirelessly interconnected, so everyone in the house hears the alarm.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Batteries in carbon monoxide detectors should be replaced once a year to provide protection from carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless toxic gas that can be fatal. Detectors should be installed on each floor of the house and outside of each bedroom to prevent serious injuries. Carbon monoxide builds up in the house, so a small amount can lead to death over time. Carbon monoxide poisoning can result from faulty home heating furnaces, as well as appliances or equipment that burn natural gas, propane, methane, wood, and coal.

Expired or Unused Medicines

When the clock springs forward each year, clean out the medicine cabinets in the house to prevent accidental injuries and poisoning. Although most prescription and over-the-counter medications lose potency after their expiration date, they still create dangers, especially for small children. The National Safety Council recommends returning expired or unused prescription drugs in free Stericycle Seal & Send envelopes, so they can be destroyed safely without causing harm.