Keeping safe at home

We should all feel safe and secure in our homes, whether we own, rent, or live in a retirement village. Here, we share some valuable home safety tips for people of all ages as well as some useful tools for older people looking for extra security measures to assist when living independently at home.

Home fire safety

We all know the importance of fire safety in our homes – for example, installing fire alarms and making sure their batteries are working properly – but did you know that Fire and Emergency New Zealand offer free Home Fire Safety Visits?

These visits are available to anyone and can include:

• Checking or installing fire alarms, and providing advice on optimal locations for alarms. This can be particularly useful for those who may not have the mobility or confidence to climb a ladder to check and maintain their alarms regularly.
• Creating a clear escape plan so you can be prepared should the worst happen.
• General fire safety advice around cooking, heating, and more.

To book a free Home Fire Safety Visit, phone 0800 693 473 or visit the Fire and Emergency NZ website. 

Be prepared for an emergency

Planning and preparation can make a huge difference to how we cope in a crisis. Here are some tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe in an emergency:

• Make an emergency plan – who might be able to help you during a natural disaster/event?
• Create a survival kit – include a torch, radio, spare batteries, charged cellphone, wind and waterproof clothing, good walking shoes, a first aid kit, and essential medications.
• Keep a stock of non-perishable food and water in case of loss of power, water, sewerage, or other basic services.

It’s also wise to have a plan should you fall ill and are stuck at home for an extended period:

• Have a ‘support crew’ who could be there for you to bring food, pick up medications, or even just stay connected with you online or over the phone.
• If applicable, talk to your in-home carers about what would happen should you become sick and need to isolate.
• Write down any household instructions in case you get sick and need hospital care, including feeding/caring for pets, paying bills, and watering plants.

Visit www.civildefence.govt.nz for more tips and regional civil defence emergency management contracts.

Access equipment to assist you in your home

There are so many innovative, assistive solutions available today. Do your research and you may find some tools to help you manage better and feel safer at home.

It’s also worth investigating whether you are eligible for subsidised loan equipment or home modifications.

Find out how assistive equipment can make your life easier.

Check your eligibility for a medical alarm

A medical alarm can be a great tool to provide peace of mind when it comes to our safety at home. While there is a cost to rent and monitor a medical alarm in New Zealand, if you qualify for the Disability Allowance via the Ministry of Social Development, you may be able to get funding.

Learn if you’re eligible for a medical alarm, and find medical alarm providers.

Get help around your home

While some of us can still manage, or even enjoy, home maintenance tasks, others may need some help to safely undertake home repairs, gardening, or larger projects.

Where to find trusted tradespeople and gardeners:

• Search Making Life Easier to find providers in your area.
• Enquire with your local Age Concern for a list of trusted home maintenance and tradespeople.
• Ask friends or family/whānau for recommendations.

Read more tips on choosing a tradesperson to help around your home. 

Home safety checklist

There is plenty more you can do to make your home as safe as possible, so you can continue to enjoy living independently. Check out our quick tips to make your home safer.