Southern Medical Patient Center - Home Safety

Emergency Plan of Care

1. Keep emergency numbers close by.

1. ) Fire
2. ) Police
3. ) Ambulance
4. ) Electric Company

2. keep a phone close by in case you have a problem.

1. ) a portable phone is a good idea.
2. ) consider a help button

3. ask someone to check on you every day.
4. keep emergency supplies on hand:

1. ) flashlights
2. ) portable radio
3. ) backup power supplies
4. ) canned foods
5. ) medicines and supplies

Medication Safety

1. Do not take medications unless your doctor tells you it is ok. Ask your doctor before you take any over the counter medications.
2. Keep a list of your medication with you all the time. Include: name, how many mg, how often you take it, and why you take this.
3. Read the information you drug store gives you about your medication. If you do not understand, ask questions.
4. Check the expiration date on all the medications in your home every month.
5. Keep your medicine in a safe place.
6. Call your doctor or pharmacist if you think you may have any side effects or allergies.
7. Do not stop or change your medicine unless your doctor tells you to do so.
8. Do not drink alcohol while taking medications.
9. Do not change the dose of your medication unless your doctor tells you to. Poison control number is 1-800-462-0800.

Fire Safety

1. Have a plan in case of fire.

1. ) plan at least 2 ways out of each room. b) pick a meeting place outside.
2. ) practice your plan.

2. Have smoke detectors in your home with batteries that work. Test smoke detectors once a month.
3. Have fire extinguisher in the kitchen and any room with an open heat system. know how to use the fire extinguisher.
4. Check your plugs and cords for fraying and overloaded outlets.

1. ) Replace cords and outlets that are warm to touch.
2. ) Use 3 prong outlets for 3 prong cords.
3. ) Do not place cords under carpets or furniture legs.
4. ) Keep electrical appliances unplugged when not in use.
5. ) Keep electrical away from the sink, tub and shower areas.

5. Use light bulbs with the correct wattage.
6. Heat your home safely.

1. ) Keep heaters away from curtains, furniture, and rugs.
2. ) Have heaters, fire places and chimneys regularly cleaned and maintained.
3. ) Never dry clothes on heaters.
4. ) Never leave heaters or fires unattended.

7. Safe Cooking:

1. ) never leave food unattended.
2. ) do not reach across front burners with loose sleeves.
3. ) do not place pot holders near eyes of stove.

8. Smoking Safety: it is best not to smoke but if you or someone in your home do;

1. ) Never smoke in bed.
2. ) Do not smoke with or around oxygen.
3. ) Never leave smoking materials unattended.
4. ) Do not throw out smoking materials if they are hot or burning.

9. If oxygen is in use, place a no smoking sign on your door.

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