How to Make your home safer, Practical steps

Real Simple researched the leading causes of home injuries -- from slips and falls to smoke and fires -- to compile this complete guide to minimizing domestic mishaps

Bedroom

Fire statistic: According to the National Fire Prevention Association, in 1999 almost half of all home fire deaths resulted from fires that were reported between 10 P.M. and 6 A.M.

• Since smoke can further hinder visibility, keep a rechargeable flashlight plugged in by your bedside to light your way or to signal firefighters. The Coleman Slimline Rechargeable Light (800-835-3278 for store locations) runs for five hours on a single charge.
• Place space heaters at least one yard from anything flammable. Turn them off when you're not in the room.
• If you live in a two-story dwelling, a rescue ladder that can attach to your windowsill adds another escape route during a fire.
• Make sure security bars on windows have quick-release mechanisms.
  

Childproofing

• Install window guards. They aren't a substitute for parental supervision, but they do provide reassurance.
• Check the crib. Make sure it meets safety standards. (Request a list of recalled products from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission at www.cpsc.gov.) Keep cords away from the crib. Keep the crib away from windows, if possible.
  

Bathroom
Slips, Trips, Falls

• For extra support getting in and out of a slippery shower, attach a grab bar to your shower wall, installing it into studs.
• If your tub has a slippery bottom, add nonskid decals. Make sure your bath mats are nonslip, with rubber backings.
• If standing in the shower is difficult, use a handheld shower and a shower seat to prevent injuries.
  

Shocks

• Keep portable heaters out of the bathroom. Water and electricity don't mix.
• Disconnect appliances like hair dryers and curling irons after use, and stow them away only when they're cool.
  

Childproofing statistic: Nearly one-third of home drownings happen in tubs.

• Always supervise young children in the bath.
• Consider purchasing toilet locks if you have small children. (Safety 1st cover clamp toilet lock, $6, available at most hardware stores.)

Kitchen
Fire statistic: Cooking is the number one cause of home fires.

• Don't leave pots unattended on the stovetop.
• Turn the handles of pots and pans inward so you'll be less likely to knock simmering food off the stove.
• Keep a lid close to the stove to snuff out cooking fires. Don't use water, which can spread burning grease around the kitchen.
• Keep pot holders, towels, and other flammable items away from burners.
• Use only dry oven mitts -- wet ones are a scalding danger.
• In case of an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the oven door closed. If there's a microwave fire, keep the door closed and unplug the microwave.
  

Childproofing

• Attach safety latches to drawers containing knives, scissors, and sharp utensils. (Safety 1st cabinet and drawer latches, $3, available at most hardware stores.)
• Use appliance knob covers to keep kids from turning on stove burners.
• Install a safety cover on your garbage disposal to protect kids' hands.

From Yahoo Shine.