How safe is your home? Safe homes save lives and save you money on homeowner’s insurance premiums.
Add one point for each true statement to see how safe your home is.
- I tested my smoke alarms in the last 30 days.
- I replaced the batteries in my smoke alarms in the last year.
- I replaced my smoke alarms in the last 10 years.
- I have a fire extinguisher in my kitchen and know how to use it.
- I never leave candles unattended.
- No one in my household smokes.
- I’ve had the wiring in my home inspected and it’s up to code.
- My family has a fire safety plan.
- My family has practiced our fire safety plan in the last month.
- I inspect holiday decorations every year before using them.
- I only use outdoor holiday decorations outside my home.
- I cover electrical outlets when they’re not in use.
- I have deadbolts on any external doors.
- Any deadbolts in my home don’t need a key to be opened from the inside.
- I have a first aid kit, and everyone knows where it is.
- I have a disaster preparedness kit with food, water, medication and emergency supplies for at least three days.
- I have a home security system.
- I have a home sprinkler system.
- My home’s street address is easily visible from the street.
- I have a carbon monoxide detector on every level of my home.
- I tested my carbon monoxide detectors in the last month.
- I don’t have any extension cords plugged into other extension cords.
- I store cleaners securely out of the reach of pets and children (even if I don’t have any myself).
- I store knives and sharp objects safely out of the reach of pets and children (even if I don’t have any myself).
- I close and lock all windows when I’m not in the room.
- I have secured bookcases, shelves, TVs and appliances that could fall on someone.
- If my home was built before 1980, I’ve had it inspected for asbestos and lead paint. (Add one point if you own a newer home.)
- If I have a grill or outdoor kitchen equipment, it’s located a safe distance from my home, deck railings and overhanging branches. (Add one point if you don’t have a grill.)
- If I have a pool, it’s surrounded by a fence with a secure lock. (Add one point if you don’t have a pool.)
- I don’t own a trampoline.
- I clear snow swiftly and thoroughly (or pay a service to do so for me).
- All stairs in my home have sturdy railings.
- I have motion sensing lights or illuminated light switches around stairs or other obstacles.
- I have motion sensing lights outside my home.
How’d you do? If you got more than 30 points, you’re a home safety guru! You’ve thought hard about the safety of your family and guests. If you scored fewer points, it’s a good idea to look into home safety upgrades.
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