{"id":321,"date":"2019-10-02T17:49:39","date_gmt":"2019-10-02T17:49:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/capsbuilder.com\/?p=321"},"modified":"2019-10-02T17:49:39","modified_gmt":"2019-10-02T17:49:39","slug":"5-steps-to-stairway-safety","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/capsbuilder.com\/index.php\/2019\/10\/02\/5-steps-to-stairway-safety\/","title":{"rendered":"5 STEPS TO STAIRWAY SAFETY"},"content":{"rendered":"

Avoiding slips and falls on stairways is an aging in place imperative and one that we take very seriously.\u00a0 Among the many hats we wear as aging in place designers and contractors, our fall prevention planning cap is a big one. As we age, stairs become a growing obstacle for many of us and a centerpiece of concern for safety experts.\u00a0 But don\u2019t despair. We have a stairway safety protocol that\u2019s simple, inexpensive, and effective in minimizing the likelihood of mishaps. Don\u2019t stop using your stairs\u2026.just do so safely.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

HANDRAILS TIMES 2.<\/u> Most homes come equipped with one handrail per stairway.\u00a0 Want to be safe? We strongly urge you to consider rails on both sides of the stairway.\u00a0 Install them at elbow height and make sure they\u2019re firmly attached to the wall. (they should support your entire weight without pulling free). The rails should stretch slightly beyond the top and bottom of the stairs so that they\u2019re available for grasping as you begin your climb or descent. And the thickness of the rail is also critical; an adult should be able to wrap their hands entirely around it…keep the circumference under 61\/4 inches<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

GRIPPY TREADS\/VISIBLE TREADS.<\/u>\u00a0 Smooth surfaces like wood, or tile are slips waiting to happen. But there\u2019s an easy answer;\u00a0 install treads made of rubber, or other grippy materials, or apply non-slip tape to each stair surface for secure footing.\u00a0 Carpeting also works well, but make sure it fits snugly, without wrinkles or movement.\u00a0 Low pile carpet treads are the best option. To enhance the visibility of each tread, put a stripe of contrasting color on the nosing of each tread. And don\u2019t forget to check the overall condition of the stairs; fix any uneven steps, cracks, or protruding nails.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

DITCH THE CLUTTER<\/u>.\u00a0 It\u2019s common sense; get rid of loose rugs at top or bottom of stairs and remove all objects from the stairway…shoes, books and odd pieces of clothing have a way of ending up there. If furniture on the landings is an obstacle, find a better location. Keep the stairway decorations to a minimum.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

LET THERE BE LIGHT.<\/u>\u00a0 Make sure your stairs are well lit with low glare overhead lighting that minimizes shadows. Place light switches at the top and bottom of the stairs. Add some nightlights in the hallways and landings leading to the stairway.\u00a0 An essential rule of thumb:\u00a0 stairs should never be less well-lit than the surrounding areas.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

SOME EXTRA \u201cSTEPS\u201d.<\/u>\u00a0\u00a0 Here are some other personal measures to keep in mind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n