How to prevent common household accidents as report warns of 'all-time high'

man makes a mess of his self assembly wardrobe then falls off his ladder
-Credit: (Image: Getty)


A charity has issued a stark warning that accident-related deaths in the UK have hit an all-time high.

It's always better to be safe than sorry, particularly when it comes to accidents at home.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has revealed that individuals are "substantially more likely" to experience a severe accident now than they were two decades ago, according to data gathered from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

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The report highlighted a 48 percent increase in hospital admissions due to serious injuries resulting from accidents over the past 20 years in England alone – with over 740,000 people admitted following an accident in 2022/23.

Accidents have now become the leading cause of preventable death for those under 40, with over half of fatal accidents occurring in the home.

Even if they're not fatal, domestic accidents can frequently lead to both major and minor injuries. So, what are some of the most common accidents that occur in our homes, and how can we take steps to avoid them?

a&e
People have ended up in A&E following incidents in their home -Credit:Getty Images

In the garden

"In the garden, injuries often come from lawnmowers, power tools, and ladders," advises Brad W. Huffman, a seasoned attorney and senior partner at Huffman & Huffman, a law firm specialising in personal injuries and driving accidents. "People don't always realise the risks with outdoor equipment, especially around water or uneven ground."

However, there are ways to mitigate these risks. "Always use extension cords rated for outdoor use, and keep equipment unplugged when not in use," Huffman advises. "When it comes to ladders, avoid reaching or leaning too far. Moving the ladder as you go may take more time, but it's safer."

Falls within the home

Falls are a frequent cause of accidents, including fatalities, within the home. It's particularly crucial to monitor children closely around open windows and balconies, and anywhere there is a potential risk of falling from a height.

In general terms, Huffman urges individuals to exercise extra caution on slippery surfaces or around trip hazards within the house – and mentions that falls within the home occur frequently.

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"Especially in high-traffic areas like stairs, hallways, and bathrooms," Huffman states. "Often, people trip over clutter, slip on loose rugs, or fall on wet floors."

To avoid a severe fall and subsequent injuries, maintain a tidy house and consider installing some features that will assist in keeping you stable.

"Keeping floors clear, using non-slip backing for rugs, and installing handrails on stairs can make a big difference," Huffman suggests. "In bathrooms, grab bars near the shower or toilet can provide additional support, especially for older adults."

DIY mishaps

DIY tasks at home come with their own set of dangers. It's essential to prepare thoroughly, give careful thought to each project, and ensure you have the correct safety gear like protective wear, gloves, and masks – and always avoid doing jobs that should be handled by professionals.

"Many injuries involve power tools, sharp objects, or falls," Huffman notes. "It's easy to skip safety basics, but things like gloves, eye protection, and stable set-ups can prevent serious injuries."

It's also wise to work with a buddy when undertaking DIY jobs. "Make sure to read tool instructions, even if you think you know how to use them," Huffman advises. "And if a ladder's involved, have someone nearby to help steady things."

Kitchen incidents

Throughout his career, Huffman has encountered numerous kitchen accidents and stresses the importance of precaution in this area. "In the kitchen, burns, cuts, and slips are frequent," Huffman observes. "Handling hot pots, sharp knives, or dealing with spilled liquids can be risky if we're not careful.

"Oven mitts help avoid burns, and storing knives safely in a block or drawer reduces the chance of accidental cuts. Cleaning up spills right away also prevents slips, which are particularly dangerous on hard floors."

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