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Most of us have, at one point, slipped in the shower, stumbled on the stairs or taken a tumble on the terrace, and you’re not alone. In fact, more than 5.1 million people report accidents and, tragically, nearly 6,000 die every year from accidental falls in the home.

Stairways, slick surfaces and uneven footing can create unexpected, but easily prevented, danger zones. With some simple safety precautions, you can help avoid slips and falls and keep your family safe.

Clear the stairs

Whether your home has interior, exterior or basement stairs, it’s important to make them as safe as possible.  Here are some tips for stair safety from The Home Safety Council.

· Check to make sure railings and banisters are secure. Wood glue like EcoGlue Premium Wood can secure loose balusters or handrails.

· Add lighting at each end of the staircase.

· Keep clutter off the steps.

· Use safety gates at the top and bottom if there are small children in the house.

· Paint the bottom stair of basement steps white so it’s easier to see.

Create safe surfaces

Some surfaces are more prone to be slippery, especially when wet. Tile in the bathroom, wood on the deck and cement around a pool can be hazardous.

One of our new products, Amazing GOOP Anti-Skid Epoxy, sprays feet-friendly grit on potentially slippery surfaces to increase safety. It comes in an aerosol can, which is perfect for covering small areas around the home and covers up to 15 sq. ft.  Because it’s an epoxy, it is also extremely durable and chemical resistant.

Be tacky

Loose mats, small rugs and loose tiles or cement can all create unexpected perils.

In the bathroom, make sure all bath mats have nonskid backing. Coatings like Amazing GOOP Anti-Skid Bath, Tub & Tile creates a crystal clear finish with an acrylic coating and helps with firm footing on tiles and in the shower or bath. It’s a nice choice because it won’t detract from the look, but will add a peace of mind.

Small rugs around the house should also be tacked down with tape – or not used at all, especially around stairs.

Finally, don’t forget your home’s exterior. Walkways with loose or broken tiles, bricks or stones can create problems. Sometimes just pounding the loose stone back into place works great if the base is on dirt. You can use a level to ensure each piece is even. If the loose pieces aren’t on dirt, Amazing EcoGlue Extreme will tack them back in place with an instant and permanent hold on cement, concrete, metal or other surface.

It doesn’t take much time, effort or even money to make your home safe for your family. Common sense and simple precautions will keep you on your feet and free from slips, trips and tumbles.