How to Make Your Staircase Safer

The home poses many risks, from fire hazards to accidental trips and falls; there is much to consider when we think about maintaining adequate safety standards for our families. There are over 43,000 staircase-related injuries annually in the UK alone, some of which result in the unthinkable. However, there are ways of reducing risk and preventing staircase incidents to protect the safety and well-being of your family. Read on to find out more.

Baby Gates

Parents of toddlers all know that as soon as babies start to walk, there is no stopping them. Baby gates are essential for keeping young children safe and away from hazardous areas, such as the kitchen, the bathroom and the staircase. Fortunately for rental tenants, many baby gate designs use pressure to secure them to door frames and hallways, negating the need for permanent alterations. However, screw-fit baby gates are arguably the strongest, best option for your child's safety and your peace of mind.

Add Traction

Slippery stairs can be incredibly dangerous. While wooden stairs have a sleek, timeless appearance, they can pose slip hazards, particularly if they’re coated in wax or varnish. While slipping on a carpeted staircase is entirely possible, you are much more likely to keep your grip on a carpeted surface. Fortunately, you can improve the grip of wooden, marble and tile staircases by adding traction in the form of non-slip coatings or carpet strips. You can even purchase transparent anti-slip strips to improve your staircase's safety whilst maintaining its aesthetic.

Sufficient Lighting

Adequate staircase lighting is vital to reduce the risk of tripping. Being able to see where you are placing your feet is crucial for any area of the home, particularly the staircase, and while you might want to maintain a cosy ambience, attractive lighting is not worth risking your safety. If your staircase is poorly lit, it may be worth installing extra overhead lighting. Alternatively, you could install foot-level recessed lighting to illuminate each step.

Repair Broken Handrails

Old, worn or damaged handrails may require attention. Handrails are essential for providing stability and a guide for household members and visitors. While you may be able to get up and down your stairs perfectly well without a handrail, remember, not all houseguests are as able-bodied. Many rely on staircase handrails to help them negotiate stairs safely, particularly those with poor mobility and sight impairment. Show your handrail a little TLC, ensuring it is secure and functional.

Inappropriate Footwear

Stay safe by wearing well-fitting shoes when negotiating stairs. Inappropriate footwear, such as backless slippers, should be avoided or removed before ascending/descending a staircase. Even wearing loose-fitting shoes like flip-flops on a cantilever staircase can be hazardous as they may become snagged, resulting in a fall. If your home has a “no shoes” rule, always wear well-fitting slippers, as wearing socks on slippy hardwood or marble floors and stairs can be risky.

Remove Obstacles

Cluttered staircases can be extremely hazardous. Granted, family life can result in a lot of clutter, but if any area in the house should be kept free from obstacles, it should be the staircase. Tripping over a stray shoe, schoolbag, or toy can result in painful, sometimes life-altering injuries such as broken legs, nerve damage and traumatic head injuries. Never leave items on the stairs; if you spot something, remove it immediately, as one misplaced step is all it takes.

Stair Lifts

Stairs can be hazardous for all ages; however, they are particularly challenging for the elderly. If you have an elderly household member whose mobility is not what it once was, you may want to consider installing a stair lift. A stair lift can also make a home far more accessible and comfortable for those with physical and mobility impairments caused by conditions such as cerebral palsy, arthritis and multiple sclerosis. Fortunately, stair lift installation is relatively quick, straightforward and sometimes discounted or even free through the NHS - you can read more about NHS home adaptations here.

Talk To Your Kids

While some children are cautious and negotiate stairs slowly and safely, others are much less cautious. It is advisable to sit your children down and explain the dangers of running and playing on the staircase. Demonstrate how to safely ascend and descend, and encourage them to ask for help when needed. Stair safety should be an ongoing practice, so stick to your advice and exhibit safe habits around your children.