Make stairs safer by taking a few precautions

SAN DIEGO COUNTY – Many household injuries are attributed to falls down stairs. Even a simple slip can result in a sprained or fractured ankle, or another broken bone. Young children and the elderly may be especially vulnerable when it comes to staircase injuries. There are ways to help prevent the scores of accidents attributed to stairs.

• Make sure stairs are clear of clutter. Any item left on the stairs is a tripping hazard – whether it is an errant sock or one of the children’s toy cars. There should be nothing on the stairs that hinders a person’s ability to go up and down safely.

• Make sure the stairs are well-lit. Ample illumination can make it easier to see the stairs and prevent shadows from forming. Feel free to increase the wattage of bulbs used over staircases. If visibility continues to be a problem, as may be the case with basement steps, put a strip of reflective tape on the edge of the steps.

• Make sure railings are secure – and used. Falls can be avoided by holding on to sturdy railings.

• Make sure stairs aren’t slippery. Non-slip runners or other attachments can prevent falls from slippery stairs.