STAIRS For all stairways, check lighting, handrails, and the condition of the steps and coverings. CHECK LIGHTING QUESTION: Are stairs well lit? YES ___ NO ___ RECOMMENDATION: Stairs should be lighted so that each step, particularly the step edges, can be clearly seen while going up and down stairs. The lighting should not produce glare or shadows along the stairway. • Use the maximum-wattage bulb allowed by the light fixture. (If you do not know the correct wattage, use a bulb no larger than 60 watts.) • Reduce glare by using frosted bulbs, indirect lighting, shades and globes on light fixtures, and by partially closing blinds and curtains. • Have a qualified person add additional light fixtures. Make sure that the bulbs you use are the right type and wattage for the light fixture. QUESTION: Are light switches located at both the top and bottom of the stairs? YES ___ NO ___ RECOMMENDATION: Even if you are very familiar with the stairs, lighting is an important factor in preventing falls. You should be able to turn on the lights before you use the stairway from either end. • If no other light is available, keep an operating flashlight in a convenient location at the top and bottom of the stairs. • Install night lights at nearby outlets. • Consider installing switches at the top and bottom of the stairs. QUESTION: Do the steps allow secure footing? YES ___ NO ___ RECOMMENDATION: Worn treads and worn and loose carpeting can lead to insecure footing, resulting in slips and falls. • Try to avoid wearing only socks or smooth-soled shoes or slippers when using stairs. • Make certain the carpet is firmly attached to the steps all along the stairs. • Consider refinishing or replacing worn treads, or replacing worn carpeting. • Paint outside steps with paint that has a rough texture, or use abrasive strips. QUESTION: Are the steps even and of the same size and height? YES ___ NO ___ RECOMMENDATION: Even a small difference in step surfaces or riser heights can lead to falls. • Mark any steps which are especially narrow or have risers that are higher or lower than the others. Be especially careful of these steps when using the stairs. QUESTION: Are the coverings on the steps in good condition? YES ___ NO ___ RECOMMENDATION: Worn and torn coverings and nails sticking out from coverings could snag your foot and cause you to trip. • Repair coverings. • Remove coverings. • Replace coverings. QUESTION: Can you clearly see the edges of the steps? YES ___ NO ___ RECOMMENDATION: Falls may occur if the edges of the steps are blurred or hard to see. • Paint edges of outdoor steps white to see them better at night. • Add extra lighting. • If you plan to carpet your stairs, avoid deep-pile carpeting, and patterned and dark-colored carpeting that can make it difficult to see the edges of the steps clearly. QUESTION: Is anything stored on the stairway, even temporarily? YES ___ NO ___ RECOMMENDATION: People can trip over objects left on stairs, particularly in the event of an emergency or fire. • Remove all objects from the stairway. REMEMBER PERIODICALLY TO RE-CHECK YOUR HOME.
Posted on: Fri, 21 Jun 2013 17:30:00 +0000
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