Home Safety

Moving around safely while cooking or carrying items can be a challenge. Simple adjustments can help reduce the risk of falls and make daily tasks more manageable.

This page helps you make your kitchen safer and easier to use, with practical tips to reduce the risk of falls, burns, and strain when moving around or preparing food.

Tidy, Clear, and Clutter-Free

• Keep walkways clear of boxes, bags, bins and low stools.
• Store everyday items within easy reach — between hip and shoulder height — to avoid stretching or bending.
• Avoid overfilling worktops so you can move around freely.

Avoid Slips on Wet Floors

• Mop up spills straight away to stop water, oil or food from making the floor slippery.
• Use a well-secured non-slip mat in front of the sink or where spills are likely.
• If your flooring is smooth or worn, consider replacing it with something that has better grip.

Safe Reaching and Lifting

• Don’t climb on chairs or stools to reach high shelves — ask for help or use a properly designed step with a handrail.
• If steps are essential, they must be stable, with locking legs and hand support.
• Use a grabber or reaching aid to pick up dropped items or access lower cupboards.

Move Items Around Safely

• If you often carry food or drink from the kitchen to another room, a sturdy kitchen trolley may help.
• Trolleys should only be used for carrying items, not as walking aids — make sure they’re suitable for your needs.
• Take your time, especially when carrying hot items, and avoid overfilling plates or cups.

Fire Safety in the Kitchen

Some tips and advice for fire safety in the kitchen:

• Never leave cooking unattended and always double-check that hobs and ovens are switched off after use.
• Keep tea towels, paper, and packaging away from the cooker.
• If you use gas, make sure your kitchen is well ventilated.
• Don’t wear loose clothing when cooking — it can catch fire easily.
• Consider fitting a heat detector in your kitchen (not a smoke alarm, which may be triggered unnecessarily).

Calling for Assistance

If you live alone or spend long periods at home, think about how you’d call for help in the kitchen if needed. A personal alarm worn on the wrist or around the neck can alert someone quickly if you fall or feel unwell.

Find Support

Please find below useful links, relevant resources and contact information. All links open in a new window and may include links to websites, videos, and PDF files for downloading and printing. 

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Fire Safety

For more information, visit our Fire Safety section.

Handyperson Service

Handypersons Service is a discounted handyperson service available (subject to eligibility) to help with small DIY jobs around your home.
Contact: 0191 5205552 (this line is open 7 days a week from 8.30am – 5.00pm 

Personal Alarms

Please visit the Telecare, Alarms and Assistive Technology Team section for more information. 

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Helpful Links 

Preventing falls in your home: a room-by-room guide - RoSPA (video)
Preventing falls in your home: a guide to safety aids - RoSPA (video)

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More on this website

Visit our Information and Advice section
Visit our Staying Active section
Visit our Home Safety section
Visit our Help and Contacts section 
Start your online Self-Assessment

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More on this website

Visit our Information and Advice section
Visit our Staying Active section
Visit our Home Safety section
Visit our Help and Contacts section 
Start your online Self-Assessment

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