Fall Hazard Checklist

Most household injuries come from falls, not fires, break-ins, or anything dramatic. Loose rugs, bad lighting, missing handrails, wet floors—it's all boring stuff until someone hits the ground. This checklist focuses on the hazards that actually send people to the hospital.

For broader home safety checks, see Home Safety Annual Review, Home Appliance Safety Checklist, and New Home Walkthrough Checklist.

1. Lighting and Visibility

[ ] Ensure hallways, stairs, entryways, and bathrooms have bright, consistent lighting.
[ ] Replace burned-out bulbs immediately—don’t “get to it later.”
[ ] Install night lights in bathrooms and hallways for safe midnight movement.
[ ] Trim shrubs outside blocking pathway lighting.

2. Stairs and Steps

[ ] Verify all interior and exterior stairs have sturdy handrails.
[ ] Repair loose or cracked steps immediately.
[ ] Add anti-slip strips to wooden or concrete stairs.
[ ] Remove clutter from staircases—no shoes, boxes, or laundry on steps.

3. Floors and Walkways

[ ] Secure loose tiles, boards, or lifted flooring sections.
[ ] Fix raised transitions between rooms.
[ ] Clean spills immediately—don’t leave wet floors for “just a minute.”
[ ] Keep hallways and common paths completely clear.

4. Rugs and Mats

[ ] Use non-slip pads under area rugs.
[ ] Remove rugs that curl, slide, or bunch up.
[ ] Place waterproof mats at entry doors to reduce slipping on tracked-in water.
[ ] Avoid thick rugs near doors where edges can catch your foot.

5. Bathrooms and Wet Areas

[ ] Install grab bars in showers and tubs.
[ ] Use non-slip mats inside and outside the shower.
[ ] Wipe up splashed water around sinks and tubs.
[ ] Replace worn caulking to prevent slow leaks creating slick floors.

6. Furniture and Layout

[ ] Keep furniture arranged so pathways are wide and unobstructed.
[ ] Avoid chairs or tables with unstable legs.
[ ] Anchor tall bookcases and dressers to prevent tipping.
[ ] Check for sharp corners in tight areas—add corner guards if needed.

7. Outdoor Areas

[ ] Inspect walkways, driveways, and patios for cracks and uneven sections.
[ ] Clear leaves, moss, ice, or snow that create slick surfaces.
[ ] Make sure outdoor steps have sturdy railings and good lighting.
[ ] Keep yard tools, hoses, and debris out of walk paths.

8. Footwear and Personal Habits

[ ] Wear shoes with proper grip indoors if floors are slick.
[ ] Avoid walking on stairs while distracted or carrying too much.
[ ] Use both handrails whenever possible.
[ ] Keep floors clear of clutter you “plan to move later.”

9. Mobility Aids and Support

[ ] Provide walkers, canes, or grab bars where needed—don’t wait for an accident.
[ ] Ensure mobility aids are the correct height and condition.
[ ] Add ramps where steps consistently cause issues.
[ ] Install handrails on both sides of long staircases.

10. Quick Fall Prevention Review

[ ] Reevaluate high-risk areas every three months.
[ ] Fix hazards immediately instead of making a mental note.
[ ] Review fall hazards during yearly walkthroughs using the Home Safety Annual Review.
[ ] Pair this with the New Home Walkthrough Checklist if you're settling into a new place.

Falls are predictable and preventable. Walk through your home with this checklist once, fix the obvious issues, and maintain the improvements as part of your regular home safety routine.