People need to stay safe in their homes. Its key that those they care for are kept from harm, but this isn't always easy.
Home is where we should be able to feel safe.Where we can relax and unwind. It is also where we spend most of our time. Home is the most common place for accidents to occur.
Fires
It is always worth taking precautions to reduce the chances of anything happening.
Make sure you:
- don't overload electrical sockets
- unplug electrical equipment
- turn off as much equipment as possible at night
Essex fire service will sometimes do a free visit to your home. They will give fire safety advice and where needed, equipment.
Falls
If you struggle with balance, there are steps you can take and equipment available.
You can make yourself safer by removing any trip hazards, for example:
- making sure all carpets and floor coverings are fixed down,
- cables do not run across floors
- there is adequate lighting throughout your house.
Active Essex's Able Like Mabel campaign has resources which show different light exercises and movements that can be added to your daily routine to help keep you stay healthier, strong and active for longer. Find out more at Able Like Mabel
Crime
We are told that the chances of being involved in crime are very low. The fear of crime is much greater. If you feel there is an emergency, call 999 in the first instance.
Essex Police have neighbourhood teams that cover the city. You can find more information on their website or by calling 101.
In the case that you are the victim of a crime, Victim Support run in the area. They can offer help whether the crime has been reported to the police or not.
There are precautions we can all take to reduce crime.
If you need to report a crime, Crimestoppers can allow you to do this confidentially. Call them on 0800 555 111.