Preventing Falls

Stairways are among the most dangerous places in a home. Nearly 20% of falls happen on steps or stairways. Children and older adults are most at risk of falling. Each year, falls at home injure about 5.1 million people.

According to the Home Safety Council, falls are by far the Number 1 cause of death from home injury. More than 50 percent of all falls happen in the home.

Look at the two drawings below. The first shows a stairway that could cause people to fall. The second shows a safe stairway. Can you tell why the stairway on the right is safer? Study the drawings before you read the answer below.

Answer: The stairway on the right has a handrail and bright lighting. Having a handrail on both sides of the steps is even better. There are no objects lying on the steps. Anti-slip treads have been fixed to the steps. There is a gate at the top of the stairs to keep small children out. The throw rug at the bottom of the stairs has been removed.

News for You®, Vol. 52, No. 42. October 20, 2004. New Readers Press, division of ProLiteracy Worldwide. Adapted by permission.