Home safety

Your bedroom is a place of relaxation and sleep, but also a place where the risk of falls can be higher. By making small changes, you can create a safer and more comfortable environment.

Your bedroom is a place of relaxation and sleep, but also a place where the risk of falls can be higher. By making small changes, you can create a safer and more comfortable environment

Here are some tips to help you identify hazards and reduce falls risk in your bedroom:

• Getting in and out of bed: Do you feel safe getting in and out of bed? Bedding or clothing that trails onto the floor or is made of a slippery fabric might increase the risk of tripping or slipping. An unsupportive mattress or a bed that is not the correct height can make it more difficult for you to get on and off safely and increase the risk of you rolling or sliding out of bed.
• Bedside lighting: Make sure there's a convenient way to turn the bedroom light on and off from your bed. Installing a pull cord for the main light within arm's reach is ideal. Alternatively, use a bedside lamp, a battery-powered push light, or sensor lights by the bed and in the corridor.
• Telephone accessibility: Having a telephone in your bedroom can be useful. If you have one, make sure that your pendant alarm or mobile phone is within easy reach when you are in bed, and take it with you if you leave the bed, even for a short time. Try to charge mobile phones during the daytime to avoid leaving them plugged in overnight, as this can pose a fire risk.
• Clear pathways: Do you have furniture or objects on the floor which may block your pathway when walking around the room? These items can make walking more difficult if having to change direction and pose a trip hazard. Make sure you create enough space to walk around freely, especially with a clear path between the bed and the toilet.

For adaptations and other solutions, including handrails, consider speaking to organisations specialising in home modifications or social services. Their expertise can help ensure your bedroom is a safe and functional space.

The Adult Social Care Team

The Adult Social Care Team provides information to older people, adults with physical disabilities and carers, to help make informed decisions and access appropriate services. They can provide help with equipment and adaptations for daily activities, help at home and support within your caring role. Telephone 01793 463333

Fire Service Safe & Well Assessment

Consider a free home fire safety check from the local fire service. Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service will visit your home, provide safety advice, install smoke, carbon monoxide and heat detectors where necessary and help you create an escape plan.

For more information and to request your free visit go to www.dwfire.org.uk/safety/safe-and-well-visits or telephone 0800 038 2323

Home Adaptations

Contact a local Handyperson Service for support with minor adaptations such as additional handrails: www.checkatrade.com