Contractors say you're making your home dangerous if you aren't doing these things

Plus: Solutions for your home issues.

Contractors say you're making your home dangerous if you aren't doing these things
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I’m sure you want your home to be as safe as possible for you, your family, and your pets. But there are some things that you might not be aware of that you’re neglecting that can make your home dangerous. I know it sounds scary, but luckily I’ve reached out to some contractors for some tips to make your home safer. Each tip includes a product to help you incorporate their advice, so you can reduce the chance of accidents, prevent damage, and be prepared for emergencies, just in case.

01

Problem: You aren’t worried about flooding or leaks

Solution: A 2-pack of water sensors that connect to Wi-Fi

Al Fagundes, founder of A. Fagundes Plumbing & Heating Inc, says, “I would recommend water sensors that connect to Wi-Fi. This will alert you to potential water damage before the situation becomes much worse.” These water sensors can be set to send notification alerts to your phone and your inbox when water leakage is detected. If Wi-Fi notifications are not available, an audible alert will sound off every eight seconds and only stop once the sensor is dry. The sensors’ waterproof design allows them to work in moist environments. They will beep and flash red to remind you to change batteries when they’re low.

02

Problem: You don’t check carbon monoxide detector batteries

Solution: This plug-in carbon monoxide detector with a battery backup

It’s also important for your safety to have a carbon monoxide detector in your home, according to Fagundes, founder of A. Fagundes Plumbing & Heating Inc, says. This carbon monoxide detector is unique because it can be plugged in, so you don’t have to worry about forgetting to replace batteries. However, it has a backup battery just in case of a power outage so you can have peace of mind. It’s designed with an advanced electrochemical sensor that accurately detects carbon monoxide levels no matter where it’s placed in a room (though, the Environmental Protection Agency recommends placing carbon monoxide detectors at least 5 feet above the floor).

03

Problem: You don’t have a place to store flammable products

Solution: This heavy-duty adjustable storage unit with 3 shelves

Fagundes says it’s dangerous to leave “paint cans, varnishes, bleach, and other chemicals near flame sources for combustion, the water heater, furnace, dryer, or boiler.” Instead, you should use this storage unit to place flammable products in a safe spot in your home. This storage unit is designed with adjustable shelves that allow you to move them to the right height that you need. It’s durable and can support up to 250 pounds on each shelf.

04

Problem: You don’t have proper lighting near stairs

Solution: These motion-sensor stair lights that are totally wireless

Navigating in the dark can be dangerous. Which is why owner of SD Epoxy Floors Ryan Vaughn says it’s important to have proper lighting throughout your home, especially in hallways and staircases, because it “can help avoid accidents.” These wireless LED stair lights are easy to install — just peel and stick. They’re battery-operated so you won’t trip over any cords. Plus, they automatically turn on when they sense motion, so they require no effort or thought at night.

05

Problem: You don’t have good lighting in your halls

Solution: Some plug-in night-lights with dawn-to-dusk sensors

Vaughn mentions that “homeowners also overlook the importance of proper lighting in hallways and staircases.” Place these plug-in night-lights in your hallway or anywhere in your home so it’s easy for you to see at night without having to turn on a bunch of lights. These are designed with dawn to dusk sensors so they turn on when it’s dark and turn off when it detects light. They’re also dimmable so you can choose the right brightness level.

06

Problem: You aren’t securing rugs to your floors

Solution: A roll of non-skid rug tape that’s easy to install

Handyman at A.O. Handy Inc Andriy Boyko suggests securing rugs to floors because “loose rugs can easily cause trips and falls.” Use this roll of rug tape to keep rugs and runners in place so they won’t move or curl. This tape is made with a mesh fabric that prevents skidding. It can be used on various surfaces like wood, tile, concrete, and more, and it won’t leave behind residue when it’s removed.

07

Problem: You don’t prevent rugs from curling up

Solution: A pack of rug corner grippers with 10,000 5-star ratings

In order to prevent accidents, Boyko says you can also use nonslip pads like these rug corner grippers “to secure area rugs and runners, ensuring they are firmly attached to the floor.” These corner grippers attach to the corners of your rug to prevent it from curling. They feature a waterproof adhesive backing that’s ideal for use both indoors and outdoors. By the way, they have over 10,000 five-star ratings.

08

Problem: You aren’t dealing with humidity in damp areas

Solution: A portable dehumidifier with a 16-ounce tank

“Using a dehumidifier in damp areas like basements can also help prevent moisture-related issues,” says Boyko. This dehumidifier can remove up to 9 ounces of water per day from a room or a small space, which can prevent window condensation, musty smells, and mold. It’s quiet and small enough to move from room to room as necessary. Plus, it will automatically shut off when the water tank needs to be drained.

09

Problem: You’re not protecting your electronics from power surges

Solution: This highly rated power strip with surge protection

Power surges can cause your devices to get damaged or start fires. That is why Boyko suggests using “surge protectors for all valuable electronics, especially in areas prone to lightning or power outages.” This power strip features 12 AC outlets, 1 USB-C port, and 2 USB-A ports so you can charge multiple devices at once. It has extra spaces between outlets to accommodate large plugs and is designed with surge protection, overload protection, temperature control, and fire resistance. It’s no wonder that it has a 4.8-star rating on Amazon after 10,000 reviews.

10

Problem: You aren’t securing doors, windows & other entryways

Solution: A 4-pack of window & door alarms that are easy to install

“Simple door and window alarms can alert you to unauthorized entry, providing an extra layer of security for your home,” explains Boyko. You can enjoy peace of mind with these window and door alarms. They’re easy to install with the included double-sided tape. They’re battery-operated so you don’t have to worry about annoying cords. Don’t worry, they’ll alert you with an LED indicator light when they’re running low. Oh, and you can choose between different chime sounds.

11

Problem: You aren’t prepared for a fire in every room

Solution: A rechargeable fire extinguisher that’s budget-friendly

Boyko says it’s important to keep a fire extinguisher “in the kitchen, garage, and near any fireplaces or wood stoves” because it “can prevent a small fire from turning into a disaster.” This fire extinguisher has a near-perfect 4.8-star rating and over 45,000 positive reviews because it’s easy to install and easy to use. It features a metal pull pin with a safety seal that prevents accidental discharge. It has a built-in color-coded gauge and a waterproof label with easy-to-follow instructions. Plus, it can be recharged by a certified professional after use.

12

Problem: You don’t have any ways to prevent falls in the bathroom

Solution: This bathroom grab bar that’s made of stylish stainless steel

“Bathrooms are common areas for falls, especially when wet,” says Boyko. “Installing grab bars near the toilet and in the shower or tub provides additional support and safety.” This stainless steel grab bar can support up to 500 pounds. It provides support so you can lift yourself out of your bathtub or off of your toilet easily. It’s also great to grab if you slip when exiting your shower.

13

Problem: You aren’t preventing electrical shocks in the bathroom

Solution: These GFCI outlets with indicator lights

You’ve probably never thought about the kind of outlets you have in your home. However, Boyko says, “Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are designed to prevent electrical shocks, particularly in areas with moisture like bathrooms and kitchens. Replacing standard outlets with GFCI outlets in any area near water sources is a simple and effective safety measure.” These GFCI outlets have built-in indicator lights that will turn green once the power is on. Each one has a reset button to restore power. And don’t worry, shoppers mentioned that they’re easy to install.

14

Problem: You aren’t keeping rugs from slipping & sliding

Solution: This trimmable rug pad gripper

Owner & CEO of Wilson Plumbing and Heating John Wilson mentions the importance of keeping walkways clear and using nonslip mats because they can “prevent falls.” This rug pad gripper has over 34,000 five-star ratings, and reviewers confirm that it doesn’t slip or slide. All you have to do is trim it to fit under your rug, place it on your floor, and put your rug on top of it. It reduces bunching and keeps your rug in place. Plus, it’s thick and adds extra cushioning so your rug is more comfortable to stand on.

15

Problem: You don’t have a well lit yard

Solution: These outdoor motion sensor lights that are solar-powered

“To make your home safer without spending much, try installing motion sensor lights outside. They scare off criminals and help you see better at night,” Wilson suggests. Place these waterproof lights outside of your home near doorways and staircases. They don’t require batteries or wires because they’re solar-powered. Plus, they automatically turn on when they detect motion, which is great for scaring intruders and helping your find your keys in your bag at night. By the way, they’re resistant to heat and frost.

16

Problem: You aren’t covering sharp corners in your home

Solution: A pack of squishy corner guards that are transparent

Wilson says you can prevent accidents with corner guards that can cover sharp edges on furniture throughout your home, and these are squishy and soft. If you’re worried about them ruining your decor, these are transparent and barely noticeable. They’re designed with an adhesive backing that can stick onto various surfaces like wood, glass, and metal.

17

Problem: Your stairs are slippery

Solution: A roll of anti-slip tape with lots of grit & grip

Wilson also suggests making your stairs safer with nonslip traction tape to prevent slips and falls. This 30-foot roll is easy to cut so you can get the perfect size for your needs. All you have to do is peel and stick it on stairs for added traction. It’s designed with 80-grit aluminum oxide that’s is great for stairs, ramps, walkways, and even ladders. It can be used indoors and outdoors on various surfaces like wood, concrete, plastic, tile, and more.

18

Problem: You aren’t adding deadbolts to your doors & windows

Solution: A set of stainless steel slide bolt locks that are so strong

For additional safety, Wilson says you should consider “adding deadbolts to doors and simple locks to windows.” These slide bolt locks are stronger than traditional door locks, according to the brand. They’re made of high-quality stainless steel that’s resistant to corrosion. They can be installed vertically or horizontally.

19

Problem: You don’t clean up clutter & mess in walkways

Solution: A large rope storage basket with handles

You might want to consider getting a large rope basket like this one to store items because Wilson says, “leaving clutter in hallways can also cause trips and falls.” You can use it to store blankets, toys, or miscellaneous items that don’t have a designated spot and always end up on the floor. It’s made with high-quality rope that’s stitched together tightly, so it’s durable. Plus, it has built-in handles that make it easy to carry.

20

Problem: You aren’t securing heavy furniture to walls

Solution: A pack of furniture anchors with metal straps

Adrian Cruz, co-owner of Columbus Concrete Co, says, “Many homeowners forget to secure heavy furniture to the wall, which can prevent tipping accidents, especially with kids around.” Use these anchors to secure bookshelves, cabinets, dressers, and more so they won’t tip over. These anchors include metal straps to hold furniture upright. According to the brand, when used correctly, they can withstand earthquakes and windstorms.

21

Problem: You aren’t locking cabinets

Solution: These adhesive cabinet latches with bestseller status

“I also recommend installing safety locks on cabinets to keep harmful cleaning supplies away from children,” Cruz says. If you have pets, it can also keep them out of dangerous situations, too. These adhesive cabinet latches are easy to install without tools. They’ll keep kids and pets out of cabinets, yet they’re easy for adults to open and close with just one hand. There’s even a unlock mode that you can activate if you need to keep a cabinet open for a long time.

22

Problem: You haven’t converted to LED light bulbs yet

Solution: A pack of cool LED bulbs that last up to 7 years

According to Cruz, you should invest in LED lights because they “can prevent burns and save on electricity.” Not only will these light bulbs not burn surfaces or overheat, they’re also shatter-resistant so you won’t have to worry about them breaking easily. Plus, they save energy and can last up to seven years.

23

Problem: You aren’t prepared for an emergency

Solution: This 200-piece first aid kid that reviewers love

“Having a first-aid kit handy is essential for minor injuries,” says Cruz. This 200-piece first aid kit is a bestseller with over 17,000 five-star ratings and a 4.7-star rating overall. It contains a variety of items that could be useful during an emergency or to treat minor injuries, like bandages, gauze pads, a sewing kit, a signaling mirror, a fire starter, and more. Plus, it comes in a convenient carrying case that’s resistant to moisture and water.

24

Problem: You aren’t swapping out blinds with long strings

Solution: A cordless cellular shade that looks quite sleek

Co-owner of Compass Exteriors Dan Staupe warns about the danger associated with long blind strings. He says, “Children and pets can become entangled in those strings, and even asphyxiate because of them, especially when the blinds are raised.” Consider this cordless cellular shade so you won’t have to worry about long strings anymore. Not only is it safer, it’s also easy to operate and it allows you to control light filtering. Plus, it’s honeycomb design helps reduce noise from outside.

25

Problem: You have floors that are slippery

Solution: A bottle of penetrating sealer that increases slip resistance

Steve Britchford, senior partner at Polycote, says, “Slips and falls usually occur in areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways, especially when they're wet.” In order to prevent accidents, he suggests using an anti-slip coating on your floors. This anti-slip penetrating sealer can be applied on various surfaces like stone, porcelain, ceramic, and more to make them less slippery without altering their appearance. By the way, it’s resistant to weather elements and staining.

26

Problem: You aren’t ensuring that your stairs are nonslip

Solution: These nonslip stair runners that look so nice

In order to “eliminate small dangers in your home” like Britchford mentioned, you should also consider making your stairs slip-resistant as well. These stair treads are designed with a non-skid, grippy backing so they won’t slide or scuff your floors. They also provide a textured surface to reduce the chance of slipping when walking up stairs.

27

Problem: You aren’t preventing slips in the tub

Solution: A pack of peel-&-stick shower stickers that are anti-slip

Britchford says a lot of slips and falls occur in bathrooms. Reduce the risk with something like these anti-slip shower stickers for your tub. They’re easy to apply — just peel and stick. They’re designed with hundreds of tiny protrusions that increase friction. Unlike some nonslip bath mats, these are waterproof, skid-resistant, and don’t prevent water from flowing freely.

28

Problem: You aren’t fixing cracked concrete

Solution: This easy-to-use concrete crack sealer

“Over time, concrete can crack. These cracks aren’t just unsightly — they're tripping hazards and can let moisture in, causing more damage,” Britchford says. Fortunately, these surfaces are not difficult to fix with this easy-to-use concrete sealer. There’s no mixing or measuring required — it’s ready to use right out of the bottle. Just squeeze to fill cracks in and it will blend into the natural color of concrete.

29

Problem: You aren’t using the right extension cords outside

Solution: This 50-foot outdoor extension cord that’s truly weather resistant

CEO of LawnStarter Ryan Farley says homeowners often make the mistake of using the wrong extension cords outdoors. “I see lots of people thinking they can get away with an indoor cord — but the risk of fire is just too great when you're taking something that's not built to withstand environmental conditions outside to be exposed to the elements,” he notes. This outdoor extension cord has a near-perfect 4.8-star rating. Shoppers mentioned that it’s durable and it doesn’t get damaged easily. It’s resistant to water and various weather conditions. And it’s designed with nickel-coated brass blades that won’t corrode.

30

Problem: You aren’t protecting vulnerable entry points like windows

Solution: This clear window film that absorbs impacts

“Windows can often be a vulnerable point, but you don’t need to go all out with expensive security systems,” says Don Schneider, brand president of Mighty Dog Roofing. “And if you’re worried about someone breaking the glass, adding security film can be effective. This film helps hold the glass together if someone tries to shatter it, making it much harder to break in.” This window film is crystal clear yet absorbs impact and can be used on tempered and non-tempered glass. It’s designed with a strong adhesive backing that makes it easy to apply. Bonus: It also provides 99% UV rejection.

31

Problem: You aren’t protecting yourself from hot surfaces

Solution: This silicone skillet handle cover that’s heat resistant to 475 degrees

Schneider says, “Burns are another hazard that can catch you off guard.” It’s important to turn cookware handles inward while they’re on the stove, but this silicone skillet handle cover is also great to add onto pans so that you won’t burn your hand. It’s heat-resistant up to 475 degrees and designed with a nonslip grip. It can accommodate most skillet and cast iron handles.

32

Problem: You aren’t testing water temperature before entering a bath

Solution: This bath thermometer that looks like a cute rubber duck

Schneider warns, “Even something as routine as filling the bathtub can be dangerous if you’re not careful. People often put hot water in first, but that can scald a child.” Use this rubber duck bath thermometer to make sure that bath water is the right temperature at all times. It can alert you when temps are too hot or too cold. It also has a built-in clock, and it adorably floats.

33

Problem: You aren’t protecting counters from appliances

Solution: This absorbent rubber mat that also muffles noises

Captain of Captain Comfort Tanner Smith suggests using appliance mats because “they can help prevent accidents and protect surfaces.” He says they work by preventing appliances from moving and shifting and can also protect your countertops from heat damage. Place this rubber mat under your coffee machine, blender, toaster, or other appliances so they won’t scratch your counter. It dries in seconds, and it hides stains. Plus, it muffles machine sounds.

34

Problem: You aren’t spacing out your countertop appliances

Solution: An appliance sliding tray that can hold 25 pounds

Avoid placing appliances too close together,” Smith says. “Appliances need space to ventilate properly.” Use this appliance sliding tray to store your toaster, blender, mixer, and more. It allows you to slide out an appliance when you need to use it and slide it back under your cabinet when you’re done. There’s a suction on the bottom that helps it stay in place, and it’s sturdy enough to support up to 25 pounds.

35

Problem: Not using proper tools when cleaning your gutters

Solution: This handheld gutter cleaning scoop that is so cheap

Matt Balducci, co-owner and CEO of HomeHero Roofing, emphasizes the importance of cleaning your gutters regularly. “Failing to do this essential home care task can build up debris in your gutters and cause water to become trapped behind blockages, then spill over and cause water damage in your roof and in your walls,” he says. If you opt to clean your gutters yourself (as opposed to hiring a professional), he recommends using a handheld gutter cleaning tool. This scoop is designed with a high handle position to protect your hands from scrapes and scratches. It has an extended tongue that’s able to get under gutter supports and a narrow heel so it’s easy to remove. Plus, it flexes to fit your gutter.