What Is The Westmead Home Safety Assessment?

One way to put a measuring stick on your home’s safety is with the Westmead Home Safety Assessment. Initially developed in 1997 in Australia to identify fall hazards that put older adults at risk, the 72-item checklist is an excellent way to identify and address potential safety hazards in your home.

More people end up in U.S. emergency rooms because of fall-related injuries than from any other cause. Since falls can occur anywhere — on stairs, along uneven outdoor walks, and in the bathroom — it’s essential to pay special attention to those areas as you consider ways to make your home safer.

Falling is also the leading cause of death for people age 65 and older and is the third leading cause of unintentional-injury-related death across all age groups. In 2018 alone, more than 37,000 Americans died from fall-related injuries.

Be aware of all hazards

Other home-grown threats to safety include:

• Choking and suffocation

• Drowning

• Fires and burns

• Natural and environmental incidents

In addition to falls, the bathroom is home to a host of other potential injuries, including cuts and scrapes, drowning, electrocution, scalds and burns and, of course, poisoning and drug abuse. Kitchens and laundry rooms are prone to fires.

Take reasonable precautions

There are many ways to manage and monitor home safety risks. Technology can provide you and your family ample warning in case of fire, smoke, or air quality emergencies and can notify authorities when needed.

Brinks Home™ can be your first line of defense with home security systems and monitored response. Our security systems are valuable early warning systems in case of storms and other natural disasters. Ask our senior security consultants about glass-break detectors and water/flood sensors. We’ll work with you to make your home as safe as possible.

Allison Clark is a senior writer for Brinks Home. She enjoys educating others on the benefits of smart home security and using technology to simplify everyday life.