Home Safety Council Supports Garage Safety Week

Safety measures such as installing proper lighting and keeping floors and stairs clear of clutter are important for inside the home, but also critical for a safer garage environment. Every family can take simple steps to maintain a clean and organized garage and ultimately increase the overall safety of their home. To reduce the risk of falls and other garage-related injuries, follow these organizational guidelines from GarageTek and the Home Safety Council:

Safe Storage

• Make sure poisonous products such as pesticides, automotive fluids, lighter fluid, paint thinner, antifreeze and turpentine have child-resistant caps, are clearly labeled and are stored in a locked cabinet out of sight and reach of children.
• Store shovels, rakes, lawn chairs, bikes and other sharp and large objects on the wall and out of high traffic areas.
• Keep pool chemicals according to the manufacturers’ directions to prevent combustion and potential poisoning exposures.
• Store gasoline in small quantities only and in a proper, tightly sealed container labeled “gasoline.”
• Do not keep gasoline in a garage with an appliance that contains a pilot light.

Garage Organization

• Properly secure shelving units to the wall, make sure they are not overloaded.
• Always store heavier items closest to the ground.
• Use a sturdy step stool with hand rails when climbing is necessary.
• Organize all items in designated, easy-to-reach places.
• Keep floors and steps clear of clutter and immediately clean up grease and spills.
• Keep children’s toys in one area and within their reach to prevent children from exploring potentially dangerous areas.
• Supervise young children when they are in the garage.
• Use bright lights at the top and bottom of stairs.
• Make sure your garage is well lit. Use the maximum safe wattage in light fixtures. (Maximum wattage is typically posted inside light fixtures.)
• Install secure handrails or banisters on both sides that extend the entire length of the stairs.
• Clean garage of dust, webs and trash, which can interfere with the electrical system.
• When purchasing or remodeling a home with a garage, ensure that the door is equipped with an auto-reverse feature. Test the garage door safety device by placing a paper towel roll beneath the door as it closes. If the door opens quickly, then your family and pets will be protected from bodily entrapment.

To learn more about how to keep your garage safe for your family, visit www.garagesafety.info or www.homesafetycouncil.org.