Sherri's Helpful Hints

SAFETY TIPS FOR YOUR LIVING AREA

• Never run electrical cords under rugs, furniture or near walkways.
• Replace frayed, damaged, cracked or pinched flexes as soon as noticed.
• Tack down carpets. Put a non slip coating or pad on the underside of rugs. Never polish under rugs or mats.
• Check fuses are the correct ones for each particular appliance.
• Do not overload plugs or extension cords as this can cause fires. If plugs or plug plates are warm to the touch, call an electrician immediately.
• Leave space around the television, video and stereo etc. to prevent overheating.
• Keep area around fireplaces free from newspaper etc. and make sure fires are guarded. Ensure any chimneys which are in use are cleaned regularly.
  

SAFETY TIPS FOR YOUR KITCHEN

• Lock cleaning fluids out of the reach of children.
• Turn pan handles inwards when cooking (but ensure they are not over the heat source) Cover frying pans with frying screens or lids.
• If the oil/fat in a pan catches alight DO NOT POUR ON WATER. Soak a towel or tea towel in water, ring out and then VERY CAREFULLY place this cloth over the top of the burning pan. LEAVE for at least THIRTY MINUTES. If it is removed before this time the flame will reignite.
• Never mix different cleaning products as they can react with each other.
• Keep all dangerous items (e.g. matches, sharp knives) away from the reach of children.
• Use kitchen steps, a stool or chair to reach items in high places.
• Don't store anything attractive to children such as snacks etc, near the stove.
• Tie back long hair when cooking.
• To prevent slipping, do not leave hard floors (such as tiles) wet/damp.
• If you smell gas, turn off all gas jets and extinguish all cigarettes. Turn off the gas supply at the mains. Don't use a torch or candles. Open windows to disperse any build up of gas. If the smell of gas persists, call the gas supply office immediately. It is a good idea to have a fire blanket and small fire extinguisher available for use with small fires.
• When storing steak knives or other very sharp pointed knives, push a cork onto the tip of each knife, prevents cut fingers.

SAFETY TIPS FOR YOUR BATHROOM

• Lock all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Shower doors should be made from safety glass or heavy-duty plastic.
• Always run cold water before the hot to prevent accidental scalding. Never leave children alone in the bath. Always check the water temperature before getting into the bath. Always remove soap from the bath water to prevent slipping.
• Keep electrical items, such as hairdryers, radios, shavers etc. away from the bath or basin.
• Use non-slip mats or strips on the bottom of the bath.
• Handles attached to the wall can prevent accidents when getting out of the bath.