According to the National Safety Council, slips, trips, and falls led to nearly 9 million emergency room visits in 2023. The following simple actions can prevent conditions that lead to these incidents.
Clean up clutter: Ensure that electrical or charging cords, shoes, clothing, toys, papers, boxes, and plants are put away and out of walkways. Close doors and drawers when not in use.
Focus of flooring: Avoid using small area rugs that can present tripping hazards, especially in homes with older adults or those with mobility issues. Install nonskid mats in bathrooms and nonskid strips in showers and bathtubs.
Wipe it up: Clean up spills as soon as they happen. Watch for liquids near doorways, bathrooms, kitchens, refrigerators, and air conditioners.
Make things brighter: Good lighting makes slip, trip, and fall hazards easier to spot. Keep your eyes up and use handrails: Put down your phone before walking. Don’t carry items you cannot see over. Make using handrails a regular habit. Teach young children to use them, and remind
adults about the benefits of use.
Wear proper footwear: Wear well-fitting nonslip socks or footwear with rubber textured soles. Avoid wearing regular socks or non-structured slippers on wood, tile, or laminate floors.
Source: National Safety Council Fall 2026 Family Safety and Health
